The ecological function and biodiversity of yeasts are relatively unknown compared to those of other microorganisms.
Yeast have been used to produce CO2 and alcohol for thousands of years, but what is their purpose in ecology?
They are useful in making bread and beer (so we cultivate them, which is good for their species) and in balancing out sugars in other organisms (like people), so they have a symbiotic relationship with other living things. But if we could ask them, they would probably say they have the same purpose as us all--propogation of the species.
This is probably one of the best questions ever asked on here. I've honestly never given it a thought, but wow....
The only purpose of any living thing is to reproduce and perpetuate the species.
Yeasts are a simple, single celled eukariotic fungi. They are decomposers, which accounts for their worldwide prevalence and distribution. We just benefit from their waste byproducts.
they produce alcohol, which helps humans reproduce and perpetuate the species
they produce alcohol, which helps humans reproduce and perpetuate the species
they produce alcohol, which helps humans reproduce and perpetuate the species
they produce alcohol, which helps humans reproduce and perpetuate the species
In a nutshell, yeah. Not to get all existential on you, but what is the purpose of mankind?The only purpose of any living thing is to reproduce and perpetuate the species.
The only purpose of any living thing is to reproduce and perpetuate the species.
It's entirely possible that every living thing does have a purpose, but the complexity of the entire system is such that it may never be known.
they produce alcohol, which helps humans reproduce and perpetuate the species
As a species, or individually?
Because I know some people who seem to defy the theory of having a purpose.
For example, perhaps the purpose of yeast is to help facilitate some kind equilibrium for a broader ecosystem.
In a nutshell, yeah. Not to get all existential on you, but what is the purpose of mankind?
To slay and destroy?
If making beer is our only purpose, than may we do so with great earnest.
Who in turn cultivate more and stronger yeast. Talk about a symbiotic relationship!
Agreed. And by evolving into strains that allow us to produce delicious beers, they have ensured their survival.
What does this mean? Yeast have domesticated us people.
Agree with all of this, species perpetuation primarily.
Don't you find it odd that we benefit from their waste products? Similarly, Honey is regurgitated by Bees, Mold is used to flavor and enhance cheese - some of the most flavorful and enjoyable substances on earth are derived by the fermentation and/or breakdown of other substances using yeasts, molds and bacterias.
So, is it coencidental that hops are bacteria free and a natural perservitive?
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