TED: Earth's original inhabitants -- and their role in combating climate change | Steven Allison

Microbes are everywhere, playing crucial roles in maintaining planetary health. They are adaptable and mostly beneficial, contributing to human health, agriculture, and climate solutions. Microbial diversity is vast, with less than 1% being pathogenic. They aid in nutrient cycling, decomposition, and carbon sequestration. Microbes can help mitigate climate change by adapting to new conditions and supporting soil health. Research continues to explore their potential in addressing global challenges.

What is the primary role of microbes in planetary chemical cycles?

• To cause diseases

• To balance chemical cycles

• To produce fossil fuels

• To create new species

What percentage of microbial diversity is pathogenic to humans?

• Less than 1%

• 10%

• 50%

• 90%

What is the human microbiome?

• A collection of human cells

• A group of pathogenic bacteria

• A type of virus

• An assemblage of microbes living in and on the human body

How do cyanobacteria contribute to planetary health?

• By causing diseases

• By producing fossil fuels

• By decomposing dead plants

• By providing breathable oxygen

What is the role of mycorrhizal fungi in agriculture?

• To produce fossil fuels

• To collect water and nutrients for plants

• To cause plant diseases

• To increase soil erosion

How can soil microbiomes help in habitat restoration?

• By causing plant diseases

• By increasing soil erosion

• By recolonizing degraded soil

• By producing fossil fuels

What is microbial decomposition?

• A process of causing diseases

• A type of biological recycling

• A method of producing fossil fuels

• A way to increase soil erosion

How might climate change affect microbial recycling?

• By stopping it completely

• By speeding it up and releasing more greenhouse gases

• By having no effect

• By making it more efficient

What is one way microbes can help with climate change?

• By increasing soil erosion

• By evolving to adapt to new conditions

• By producing more fossil fuels

• By causing more diseases

How do microbes contribute to soil carbon sequestration?

• By causing soil erosion

• By decomposing quickly

• By forming biofilms that store carbon

• By producing fossil fuels