List of human microbiota

The human body is full of tiny living things called microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and archaea. These tiny creatures live in different parts of our bodies, like our stomachs, intestines, skin, and even in places you might not expect! Each part of the body has its own special group of these microorganisms, and some of them can be found in many different places.

These tiny living things are very important because they help keep our bodies healthy. Some of them help us digest food, while others protect us from harmful germs. Even though we might not see them, they are always working to help us stay well.

This article talks about some of the known microorganisms that live in our bodies. It focuses especially on the ones found in our mouths, the area around the uterus, and other parts of the body that are important for health. Learning about these tiny helpers can help us understand how our bodies work and stay healthy.

Categories of bacteria

The human body has about 39 trillion bacteria, which are tiny living things. These bacteria can be grouped into three main shapes.

One group, called cocci, are round like balls. Another group, called bacilli, are rod-shaped. The last group, called spirochetes, are spiral-shaped, like tiny corkscrews. Each shape has different examples of bacteria that live in our bodies.

Eye

The eye is a special place in the body that also has its own tiny world of tiny living things. These tiny living things, called microorganisms, live on and help protect the eye. They are found in places like the surface of the eye and can be different types such as bacteria and fungi.

Mouth

Further information: Oral microbiology

The oral microbiota includes all the tiny living things found in our mouths. These include different types of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other small organisms. They help keep our mouths and bodies healthy. A scientist named Anthony Van Leeuwenhoek was the first to see these tiny organisms using a microscope he made himself.

Keeping our mouths clean is important for staying healthy. Good habits like brushing our teeth twice a day, flossing, eating foods without too much sugar, drinking plenty of water, and using special healthy supplements can help keep these tiny organisms balanced and our mouths feeling fresh.

Respiratory System

The respiratory system includes parts like the nose, throat, and lungs. These areas also have tiny living things called microorganisms. These can be bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other very small organisms. They live on and inside our bodies, even in places we might not expect!

Gastrointestinal Tract

Main article: Gut microbiota

The gastrointestinal tract, also known as the stomach and intestines, is home to many tiny living things called microorganisms. These include different types of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other tiny organisms that live together in our bodies. They help with digestion and keep our bodies healthy.

Skin

Main article: Skin microbiome

The skin is covered with tiny living things, like tiny plants and tiny animals, that live together in a community called the skin microbiome. These microorganisms help keep our skin healthy and protect us from harmful germs.

Female Reproductive Tract

Main article: Vaginal flora

The vaginal microbiota changes with puberty, pregnancy, and menopause. Helpful bacteria, like some Lactobacillus species, keep the vagina safe by turning sugar into lactic acid, which creates an acidic environment that stops harmful germs. During pregnancy, the vaginal microbiota changes a lot due to hormone levels. These helpful bacteria can pass to babies during birth.

The uterus also has its own set of microorganisms, with over 278 types identified. While Lactobacillus is good for the vagina, too much of it in the uterus can be harmful. Research on the ovarian follicle microbiome is ongoing, looking at how bacteria might affect fertility treatments and birth outcomes. Some bacteria, like Lactobacillus, are linked to positive results, while others, like Propionibacterium and Actinomyces, are linked to challenges.

Male reproductive tract

The tiny living things found in seminal fluid have been studied. Scientists use special tools to look at the differences in these living things between men with certain prostate conditions. These tiny living things can help doctors understand and treat problems with fertility in men who don’t show signs of illness. Some types of these living things, like Pseudomonas, Lactobacillus, and Prevotella, can affect sperm quality. When Lactobacillus is found in semen, it often means the sperm count is very healthy.