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In "Journey to the Microcosmos: What If All the Microbes Disappeared?" viewers explore a scientific thought experiment about the role of microbes in sustaining life on Earth. The video explains mass extinctions, methanogens, archaea, microbiomes, photosynthetic microbes, nitrogen fixation, decomposition, and nutrient cycles such as phosphorus cycling. It also examines how gut bacteria support digestion and metabolism, and why losing microbes would disrupt ecosystems, food systems, and atmospheric balance. Referencing research by Jack A. Gilbert and Josh D. Neufeld, the episode connects microbiology, ecology, evolution, and Earth system science in ways that support life science and environmental science curricula. Part of the "Journey of the Microcosmos" series.
