We re also investigating the disappearance of large animal species such as elephants. We re trying to see what can be done to save these great treasures. As my stomach cramped and I began to doze off on the toilet seat at 2 AM, I stopped thinking about the treasures of Africa. My thoughts turned to something small. I started thinking about organisms that are not only some of the the smallest and the most common critters on the planet, but also the most ancient.
Bacteria are teeny tiny organisms without internal cell membranes.
Think of a balloon filled with jello and you ll get the idea. In general, bacteria are a misunderstood group of organisms. Not all of them are bad like the one in my stomach right now. Most of them don t cause sickness. They help your body digest milk and keep harmful bacteria under control.