Running header: ENVIRONMENTAL MICROBIOLOGY

Environmental Microbiology
Curtis Jones
ITT-Technical Institute
SC2730
March 5, 2015

ENVIRONMENTAL MICROBIOLOGY

Environmental Microbiology
1.

Most people associate bacteria with disease, so it is easy to believe about the harm
they can do, however as long as humans can not live without carbon, nitrogen, protection
from disease and the ability to fully digest their food, they can not live without bacteria.
Bacteria plays a major role in the decomposition of organic matter and the cycling of
chemical elements such as carbon and nitrogen, which is needed for human life. Bacteria
also plays a role in the digestive system by supplying needed vitamins such as biotin and
vitamin K.

2.

Testing for bacteria is the only reliable way to know if your water is safe. You
cannot tell by the look, taste, or smell if disease-causing organisms are present. If
coliform bacteria are present in your drinking water, your risk of contracting a waterborne illness is increased.

3.

Items that you can take to microbiology class and consume are: buttermilk, yogurt,
sour cream, sauerkraut, pickles, and bread

4. The microbial content of:

a. Beef Steak One or other of two protective strains of lactic acid bacteria.
Bacteriocinogenic Lactobacillus sakei or uncharacterized Lacttobacillus
b. Ground Beef Lactic acid bacteria. Enterobacteriaceae
c. Pork Chop Yersinia Enterocolitica
d. Chicken Breast Salmonella bacteria.

ENVIRONMENTAL MICROBIOLOGY

ENVIRONMENTAL MICROBIOLOGY
References
(2015) Could Humans Live Without Bacteria? Live Science from
http://www.livescience.com/32761-good-bacteria-boost-immune-system.html
(2011) Coliform Bacteria in Drinking Water Supplies Department of Health New York from
https://www.health.ny.gov/environmental/water/drinking/coliform_bacteria.htm