_____________ microbes use oxygen in metabolism, while _____________ do not.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the two categories of microbes based on their oxygen requirements: those that use oxygen in their metabolism and those that do not.
2. Recall that microbes which use oxygen in their metabolism are called 'aerobic' microbes because they require oxygen to generate energy.
3. Understand that microbes which do not use oxygen in their metabolism are called 'anaerobic' microbes; they either do not require oxygen or may even be harmed by it.
4. Fill in the blanks with the correct terms: the first blank should be 'aerobic' to describe microbes that use oxygen, and the second blank should be 'anaerobic' for those that do not.
5. Review the definitions to reinforce the concept: aerobic microbes perform aerobic respiration using oxygen, while anaerobic microbes rely on other metabolic pathways that do not involve oxygen.

Key Concepts

Aerobic Microbes

Aerobic microbes require oxygen for their metabolism, using it as the final electron acceptor in cellular respiration to generate energy efficiently. These organisms thrive in oxygen-rich environments and include many bacteria and fungi.

Anaerobic Microbes

Anaerobic microbes do not use oxygen in their metabolism and may even find oxygen toxic. They generate energy through processes like fermentation or anaerobic respiration, using alternative electron acceptors such as nitrate or sulfate.

Metabolic Pathways in Microbes

Microbial metabolism involves biochemical pathways that convert nutrients into energy. The presence or absence of oxygen determines whether microbes use aerobic respiration, anaerobic respiration, or fermentation, affecting their energy yield and ecological niche.