Microorganisms decompose dead organisms and waste material from living organisms. Bioremediation - a process that uses naturally occurring or genetically engineered microorganisms to transform harmful substances into less toxic or nontoxic compounds. These organisms act as bioremediators by cleaning up oil spills in the ocean. In 1989-the Exon Valdez ran aground in Prince William Sound and 11 million gallons of crude oil leaked out. Scientists sprayed nutrients in hopes of stimulating the growth of native microbes.
Microorganisms make nitrogen available to plants.
Certain microorganisms live in the digestive tracts of grazing animals such as cattle and sheep and aid in their digestive processes . Biochemical reactions carried out by microbes also are used by the food industry to make pickles, sauerkraut, yogurt and other dairy products. Fructose used in soft drinks and fermentation reactions produced by microorganisms are used to make beer and wine and in baking to leaven bread. Fermentation wastes from breweries contain significant quantities of vitamins, proteins, and carbohydrates. Releasing these wastes into streams is prohibited in most areas because it enriches the waters causing overgrowth of algae.