Readers Identify Organisms That Provide Unrecognized Benefits

Readers answered a question about organisms that support human life and activities without most people noticing their presence. The discussion began after one reader described using parasitic wasps to control clothes moths.

Several replies focused on bacteria and microbes that live in and on human bodies. One contributor stated that without gut bacteria people would not survive. Another noted that microbes outnumber human cells and perform tasks including digestion and defense against other organisms.

Other replies mentioned honey bees and their role in pollination. One reader said the loss of bees could lead to food shortages and reduced plant diversity. Earthworms were also cited for aerating soil and making nutrients available to plants.

Additional contributions listed phytoplankton for absorbing carbon and producing oxygen, fungi for supporting tree growth, and robber flies for controlling pest insects. One reply described diatoms as responsible for a large share of atmospheric oxygen. Several readers also mentioned yeast for its use in bread and alcohol production.