The average person has 67 different species of bacteria in their belly button

The Average Person’s Belly Button: A Microbial World

Did you know that your belly button is a thriving ecosystem? It may seem like a relatively unimportant part of your body, but it is actually home to a diverse range of bacteria. In fact, research has found that the average person has about 67 different species of bacteria living in their belly button!

This fascinating fact was discovered through a study conducted by scientists at North Carolina State University. They collected samples from 60 participants and analyzed the microbial diversity present in their belly buttons. To their surprise, they found an astonishing number of different bacterial species inhabiting this seemingly insignificant area.

The researchers used a technique called DNA sequencing to identify and classify the bacteria present in the samples. They found that each belly button harbored a unique combination of microbial species, although some bacteria were more common across individuals. The most prevalent phyla were Actinobacteria, Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, and Proteobacteria.

But how do these bacteria end up in our belly buttons in the first place? Surprisingly, most of them come from our own bodies. As we go about our daily activities, we shed dead skin cells that contain bacteria. Some of these microorganisms end up in our belly buttons, where they find a suitable environment to flourish. Factors such as moisture, temperature, and the topography of the belly button can all influence which bacteria thrive in this area.

Interestingly, the study also found a link between the presence of certain bacteria and various personal characteristics. For example, they discovered that individuals with a higher body mass index (BMI) tend to have a different composition of bacteria in their belly buttons compared to those with a lower BMI. This suggests that our microbiome, including the bacteria in our belly buttons, may play a role in our overall health.

Understanding the biodiversity of bacteria in our belly buttons is not only intriguing but also has important implications for scientific research. By studying the microbial communities in this small and easily accessible area, scientists can gain insights into larger microbial ecosystems and potentially discover new species of bacteria.

In conclusion, our belly buttons are teeming with a myriad of bacterial species. While this may sound unsettling, it is important to remember that the majority of these bacteria are harmless and play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy microbiome. So, the next time you cleanse your belly button, remember that you are not just cleaning an insignificant indentation – you are nurturing a fascinating microbial world!

Source: NCBI - Belly Button Biodiversity: The Curious Case of the Navel Microbiota.