Back to: MICROBIOLOGY 400 LEVEL
Welcome to class!
Hello brilliant mind! It’s such a joy to have you here again. You’ve been learning with so much focus and energy—well done! Today’s topic might surprise you because we’re looking up into the skies! Yes, that’s right. We’re going to learn about Microbes in the Atmosphere. You might not see them flying around like birds or kites in the air, but trust me, microbes are right there in the atmosphere, silently doing their job.
Microbes In The Atmosphere
The atmosphere is not just made up of gases like oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide—it also contains dust particles, water droplets, pollen, and tiny living organisms called aeromicrobes. These are microorganisms that float in the air. They include bacteria, fungi, viruses, and even algae.
They may seem invisible and harmless, but they play several important roles—some helpful, and others harmful—depending on the type of microbe and the condition of the air.
Sources of Atmospheric Microbes
Microbes can enter the atmosphere through different activities, including:
Soil disturbance like during farming or construction work.
Wind that lifts microbes from land and water surfaces.
Sea spray from oceans, especially coastal areas like Lagos.
Plants releasing fungal spores or bacteria.
Animals and humans coughing, sneezing, or moving around.
In Nigeria, during the harmattan season, a lot of dust particles are blown around, carrying microbes from the soil into the air. Similarly, crowded markets or school assemblies can also increase the number of airborne microbes.
Types of Airborne Microbes
Bacteria – These include species like Bacillus, Micrococcus, and Pseudomonas. Some are harmless, but others can cause infections like pneumonia.
Fungi – Fungal spores from moulds such as Aspergillus and Penicillium are very common in the air. They can grow on damp walls and ceilings, especially in the rainy season.
Viruses – These are smaller than bacteria and can travel through droplets. Examples include the flu virus and the coronavirus, which spreads through sneezing and coughing.
Algae – Though not as common, some algae are carried in the air and can settle in wet places, contributing to green patches on walls.
Importance of Microbes in the Atmosphere
Weather Influence: Some microbes can act as nuclei around which water condenses, helping cloud formation and possibly even rainfall.
Disease Spread: Many respiratory illnesses are caused by airborne microbes, which is why proper ventilation is so important.
Environmental Monitoring: The presence or absence of certain airborne microbes can help scientists measure air quality.
Control and Prevention
To reduce harmful microbes in the air:
Keep indoor spaces clean and dry to prevent fungal growth.
Wear face masks in crowded or dusty places.
Use proper ventilation in classrooms, hospitals, and offices.
Avoid burning refuse, which can release more microbes and harmful substances into the air.
Summary
- Microbes are present in the atmosphere and are called aeromicrobes.
- They include bacteria, fungi, viruses, and some algae.
- Sources of airborne microbes include soil, plants, sea spray, animals, and human activities.
- Harmattan winds in Nigeria can carry microbes from the soil into the air.
- Common airborne bacteria include Bacillus and Pseudomonas.
- Fungal spores like Aspergillus are common in damp, mouldy areas.
- Viruses spread through droplets from sneezing or coughing.
- Some microbes aid cloud formation and affect weather.
- Good hygiene, ventilation, and clean environments help reduce harmful airborne microbes.
Evaluation
- What are aeromicrobes? Give two examples.
- Mention three sources through which microbes enter the atmosphere.
- How can airborne microbes be controlled in indoor environments?
It’s inspiring to see how well you’re growing in your knowledge and curiosity. Keep reaching higher—just like these microbes in the air, your potential has no limits. Afrilearn is here for you, and I can’t wait to see you in the next exciting class!