A microbial cyst is a protective, metabolically dormant, and resistant life stage formed by certain microorganisms, such as protozoa, fungi, and some bacteria. This resilient structure encapsulates the organism, allowing it to survive adverse environmental conditions that would be lethal to the vegetative form, including desiccation, extreme temperature fluctuations, nutrient scarcity, and changes in pH. While inside the protective cyst wall, metabolic activity is drastically reduced or halted. Upon detection of favorable environmental conditions, the cyst will undergo excystation, resuming normal growth and reproduction in the environment.