Atmophile

/ˈætmofaɪl/ noun

Definition

An organism or substance that thrives in or is attracted to the atmosphere and air.

Etymology

From Greek 'atmos' (air/vapor) + '-phile' (from Greek 'philia' meaning love of). A scientific term created to describe organisms that prefer gaseous environments.

Kelly Says

Some bacteria and fungi are atmophiles — they literally prefer living in the air rather than on surfaces, which blew scientists' minds when they discovered it!

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