Kingdom Monera (bacteria) - Info sheet

The Kingdom Monera, commonly known as bacteria, encompasses a vast array of single-celled organisms. These microscopic entities are incredibly diverse, with some members known for their ability to cause illness in humans, animals, and plants. However, it's important to note that bacteria are not solely agents of disease; they also play beneficial roles in various processes. For instance, certain bacteria are instrumental in the production of dairy products such as cheese and yoghurt, showcasing their valuable contributions to the food industry.

Among the myriad of bacterial species, E. coli stands out as a notable example. This species is so abundant that a mere gram of soil can contain up to 40 million bacterial cells. The study of living organisms extends beyond just understanding individual species like bacteria; it also involves exploring how these organisms are grouped and classified. There are five principal kingdoms used to categorize life forms: animals, plants, monera (which includes bacteria), protista, and fungi. Each kingdom represents a major category of life with its own unique characteristics and complexities.