A microbe, short for microorganism, is a tiny living organism that can only be seen with a microscope. These organisms include bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa. Microbes are found everywhere, from the soil in your garden to the water in your tap. They play essential roles in our ecosystem, helping to decompose organic matter and recycle nutrients. Some microbes are beneficial to humans, like the lactobacillus bacteria used in yogurt, which aids digestion. However, others can cause diseases, such as the influenza virus, which leads to the flu. Understanding microbes is crucial for health, agriculture, and environmental science.