Metabolism in microorganisms

Unicellular organisms and microorganisms have fascinating methods for getting rid of metabolic products – their own “bowel movements”, so to speak. The metabolism of microorganisms differs considerably from that of more complex living organisms, as there are no specialized organs for excretion. Instead, they use different mechanisms:

How microorganisms get rid of waste

Diffusion: Many unicellular organisms release metabolic products directly into the environment via their cell membrane. This happens passively, without energy expenditure.

Exocytosis: Some microorganisms pack waste products into vesicles and actively channel them out of the cell.

Contractile vacuoles: Particularly in freshwater protozoa such as paramecia, these structures help to get rid of excess water and dissolved substances.

Specialized enzymes: Some bacteria use enzymes to break down toxic substances before they are excreted.

Why is this important?

These processes are essential for ecological balance. Microorganisms play a key role in the material cycle by breaking down organic matter and making nutrients available for other organisms, such as phosphorus for plants.

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Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G2oRwfyyQgg&feature=youtu.be

Photo: https://www.pexels.com/de-de/foto/wissenschaft-biologie-mikrobiologie-bakterien-10448365/