Symbiotic Bacteria


Prescott et al, Microbiology 4E, McGraw-Hill, 1999


Tube worms carry bacteria in their blood which use O2 to oxidize H2S from the thermal vent.  The oxidation of H2S releases energy, which is used to fix CO2 into body parts of the animal.  See Chemoautotrophic bacteria.



Prescott et al, Microbiology 4E, McGraw-Hill, 1999


Human bodies contain many types of bacteria inhabiting different organ systems.  Some of these bacteria, particularly those of our intestine and skin, enhance our digestion and immune system.