single-celled prokaryotic organisms found in every environment on earth. bacteria are simultaneously essential symbionts (gut flora, soil nitrogen fixers, decomposers) and dangerous pathogens
antibacterial compounds from plants target bacteria through membrane disruption, protein synthesis inhibition, and enzyme interference. species like garlic, rosemary, and neem produce potent antimicrobial secondary metabolites
in compost and soil ecology, bacteria drive nutrient cycling — breaking down organic matter into forms that plants can absorb. healthy soil contains billions of bacteria per gram
see antibacterial for plant-derived compounds. see pseudomonas aeruginosa for a model pathogen
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