Final answer:
The diverse community of bacteria, archaea, and fungi living in or on the human body are known as the human microbiota, which together with their genetic material, constitute the human microbiome. These microorganisms are essential for several bodily functions, including digestion and immune system regulation.
Step-by-step explanation:
The microorganisms that live in or on the human body are called the human microbiota. These include a variety of microorganisms such as bacteria, archaea, and fungi. The term microbiome refers to all prokaryotic and eukaryotic microorganisms and their genetic material. The resident microbiota consists of microorganisms that constantly live in or on our bodies, and the transient microbiota refers to those that are only temporarily found within the human body.
The human body is a complex ecosystem where these microbes play crucial roles in our health by aiding in digestion, producing vitamins, protecting against pathogens, and educating our immune system. Different regions of the body host distinct communities of microbes that are adapted to the specific environment, like the dry skin of the forearm or the warm and moist underarm. Moreover, the gut microbiome is often considered a vital organ due to its significant impact on human health.