Soil microflora
vents).
Fungi - is a member of a large group of eukaryotic organisms that includes microorganisms
such as yeasts and molds (British English: moulds), as well as the more familiar mushrooms.
Actinomycetes - any member of a heterogeneous group of gram-positive, generally anaerobic
bacteria noted for a filamentous and branching growth pattern that results, in most forms, in
an extensive colony, or mycelium. The mycelium in some species may break apart to form
rod- or coccoid-shaped forms. Many genera also form spores; the sporangia, or spore cases,
may be found on aerial hyphae, on the colony surface, or free within the environment.
Motility, when present, is conferred by flagella. Many species of actinomycetes occur in soil
and are harmless to animals and higher plants, while some are important pathogens, and many
others are beneficial sources of antibiotics.
Stretomyces - Over 500 species of Streptomyces bacteria have been described. As with the