ScienceJuly 17, 2026
protozoan
/ˌproʊtəˈzoʊən/
Definition
A single-celled, microscopic organism that can cause disease and is identified here as a type of waterborne pathogen that thrives in warmer temperatures.
Etymology
The word is derived from the Greek 'protos' (first) and 'zoion' (animal). It was coined in the mid-19th century to classify these simple, animal-like microorganisms.
In the news
The article mentions protozoans to illustrate that rising temperatures create favorable conditions for their reproduction and virulence. This highlights the specific biological challenges climate change poses for water safety and disease control.
Climate change could undermine progress in reducing waterborne diseases, study finds
Read the full article ↗BusinessLine