What term describes disease-causing bacteria?

The term that describes disease-causing bacteria is "pathogens." Pathogens are microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, that can cause disease in their host. In the context of water quality and public health, understanding pathogens is crucial since they can contaminate water supplies and lead to outbreaks of waterborne diseases.

Metabolites refer to substances produced during metabolism, and while some may be harmful, they are not synonymous with disease-causing organisms. Endotoxins are toxic substances bound to the cell wall of certain bacteria, and while they can contribute to disease, they are distinct from the microorganisms themselves. Probiotics, on the other hand, are beneficial bacteria that provide health benefits to the host and help maintain a healthy balance in the gut microbiome; they are not disease-causing. Thus, the focus on pathogens relates directly to disease and its prevention in environmental microbiology and water safety.