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

See Examples For:

microbiota

Prebiotics serve as food for beneficial bacteria in the gut, potentially encouraging positive changes in the gut microbiota.

From Science Daily ● Aug. 17, 2026

The research team is continuing to investigate how food additives and ultra-processed foods influence inflammation, oxidative stress, blood metabolic markers, and the composition of the gut microbiota.

From Science Daily ● Jun. 18, 2026

"The findings suggest that complete removal of sucrose from a low-fat diet may negatively affect gut microbiota and metabolic health," Ahmad said.

From Science Daily ● Jun. 14, 2026

Importantly, scientists found that modifying the gut microbiota helped reduce these long-term effects.

From Science Daily ● May 21, 2026

Participants who regularly used virgin olive oil experienced improvements in cognitive function and had a more diverse gut microbiota, which is widely considered a sign of better intestinal and metabolic health.

From Science Daily ● Apr. 18, 2026