<P> Microbial metabolism is the means by which a microbe obtains the energy and nutrients ( e.g. carbon ) it needs to live and reproduce . Microbes use many different types of metabolic strategies and species can often be differentiated from each other based on metabolic characteristics . The specific metabolic properties of a microbe are the major factors in determining that microbe 's ecological niche , and often allow for that microbe to be useful in industrial processes or responsible for biogeochemical cycles . </P>
<P> Microbial metabolism is the means by which a microbe obtains the energy and nutrients ( e.g. carbon ) it needs to live and reproduce . Microbes use many different types of metabolic strategies and species can often be differentiated from each other based on metabolic characteristics . The specific metabolic properties of a microbe are the major factors in determining that microbe 's ecological niche , and often allow for that microbe to be useful in industrial processes or responsible for biogeochemical cycles . </P>
what nutrient is the main source of energy for microorganisms
what nutrient is the main source of energy for microorganisms
carbon
carbon