What term describes bacteria that may contribute beneficially to the environment or human health?

The term that describes bacteria contributing beneficially to the environment or human health is "non-pathogenic." Non-pathogenic bacteria are those that do not cause disease. Instead, they can play crucial roles in various biological processes and contribute positively in areas like digestion, decomposition, and nutrient cycling. For instance, certain non-pathogenic bacteria are essential for digestion in the human gut and can help with the breakdown of food, leading to better absorption of nutrients.

In contrast, other terms such as pathogens refer specifically to microorganisms that can cause disease and negatively impact health. Toxins are harmful substances produced by some bacteria, which can lead to illness. Antibiotics are medications that treat infections caused by bacteria and are not a type of bacteria themselves. Thus, understanding the role of non-pathogenic bacteria is significant in fields such as microbiology, health care, and environmental science, as they highlight the beneficial aspects of microbial life.