Explanation:
Key Points
Microbes live in all parts of the biosphere where there is liquid water.
By virtue of their omnipresence, microbes impact the entire biosphere.
Each microbial species in an ecosystem is thought to occupy a unique niche, which is a complex description of the ways in which an organism uses its environment.
The precise ecological niche of a microbe is primarily determined by the specific metabolic properties of that organism.
Key Terms
bioremediation: The use of biological organisms, usually microorganisms, to remove contaminants, especially from polluted water.
niche: A function within an ecological system to which an organism is especially suited.
biosphere: The part of the Earth and its atmosphere capable of supporting life.