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Which type of bacteria is considered harmless and can perform useful functions?

Pathogenic bacteria

Nonpathogenic bacteria

Nonpathogenic bacteria are considered harmless because they do not cause disease in humans. Instead, these types of bacteria can have beneficial roles in various environments, including the human body. For example, many nonpathogenic bacteria are part of the normal flora found on our skin and in our gut, playing essential roles in digestion, nutrient absorption, and maintaining a healthy balance that prevents harmful bacteria from proliferating.

Some nonpathogenic bacteria can also be involved in biotechnological applications, such as decomposing organic matter, supporting fermentation processes in food production, and even producing antibiotics that combat pathogenic strains. This functional versatility makes nonpathogenic bacteria an integral part of many ecosystems and human health.

In contrast, pathogenic bacteria are known for their ability to cause diseases, virulent bacteria can aggressively infect and damage tissues, and aerobic bacteria require oxygen to grow, but this classification does not inherently relate to their impact on health or usefulness.

Virulent bacteria

Aerobic bacteria

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