Prokaryotic cells do not usually live in isolation. Rather, they live in communities of many different species, often including microscopic eukaryotes. Whereas some microbial communities are harmful to humans, others provide important services. They help us digest our food, break down municipal waste, and recycle organic matter and chemical elements in the environment.
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Microbiomes are critical to the health of many eukaryotes.
Prokaryotes differ with respect to oxygen metabolism.
Prokaryotes play important roles in nitrogen cycling.