microbiota

American  

[mahy-kroh-bahy-oh-tuh] / ˌmaɪ kroʊ baɪˈoʊ tə /

noun

(used with a singular or plural verb)

1. the microorganisms, both flora and fauna, that inhabit a particular region, when considered collectively.

2. the microorganisms that live in the human body, symbiotically or pathologically.

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Etymology

Origin of microbiota

First recorded in 1925–30; micro- ( def. ) + biota ( def. )

Compare meaning

How does microbiota compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• microbiota vs. microbiome

Example Sentences

Scientists have long known that gut microbiota plays a role in colorectal cancer.

From Science Daily • Apr. 9, 2026

The findings, published in Cell Host & Microbe, could also help scientists better understand how gut microbiota influences overall health and disease.

From Science Daily • Apr. 9, 2026

However, scientists believe that conditions inside the intestine, including the gut microbiota and the chemical messenger serotonin, play an important role.

From Science Daily • Mar. 13, 2026

As a result, the makeup and behavior of the microbiota shift.

From Science Daily • Jan. 23, 2026

Despite their widespread use, scientists still know relatively little about how these substances affect human health, especially their impact on the gut microbiota.

From Science Daily • Dec. 26, 2025