State Microbe of Kerala

Why in News?

The Government of Kerala has officially declared Bacillus subtilis as the State Microbe and dedicated the Centre of Excellence in Microbiome (CoEM) to the people.

• Bacillus subtilis – It is a type of probiotic or “good” bacteria found widely in the environment and naturally in the gut of humans as well as in fermented foods.
• 1^st in the country – Kerala, the first State in the country to officially declare its own State microbe.
• Microorganisms beyond Pathogens – The initiative springs from a simple idea - microorganisms are far more than pathogens.
• They are central to digestion, immunity, soil health, agriculture, ecological balance, and sustainable livelihoods.
• Proposed by – The concept of a State Microorganism was proposed by Dr Sabu Thomas, Director of the CoEM.
• Aim – To spark public awareness about the immense benefits of microbes and encourage their conservation.

Features

• Scientific significance – It is one of the most extensively studied microorganisms, serving as a model organism in microbiology and biotechnology.
• Unique traits – It is known for its ability to form heat-resistant spores that can survive for long periods.
• The bacterium is also genetically competent, allowing it to take up external DNA—making it a valuable tool for genetic and biomedical research.
• Industrial & Research Importance – Its fully sequenced genome and strong protein-secretion capacity have made it a major workhorse in industrial biotechnology.
• Probiotic Properties – It is valued for its probiotic properties, helps improve gut health by producing antimicrobial compounds –
• That inhibit harmful pathogens, supports digestion, and strengthens the intestinal barrier—benefits that have led to its use in human and animal probiotic supplements worldwide.

National microbe – In October 2012, India declared Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus (used in curd, yoghurt, cheese) as the National Microbe.

Quick Fact

References

1. The Hindu | Kerala declares Bacillus subtilis ‘State microbe’
2. South First | Kerala declares Bacillus subtilis ‘State microbe’