The world of microbiology can be described with one word—variety. The differences between the plants and animals we are familiar with seem quite obvious. Green plants carry out photosynthesis. Animals get their energy by ingesting plant material or by eating animals that ingest plant material.
In the microscopic world, the lines of definition are not quite so clear. Organisms often exhibit characteristics of both plants and animals. There are also cellular differences that, when examined more closely, reveal great differences between organisms. In this Investigation, you'll explore the world of microbiology and the great diversity of all life.