What are the main differences between transient and resident microbes as described in the chapter?

Transient microbes are temporary and do not grow on the skin, whereas resident microbes are permanent and reside in deeper skin layers and glands.

Transient microbes are those that temporarily cling to the superficial layers of the skin but do not grow there. They are often picked up through direct contact and can be easily removed through washing. In contrast, resident microbes are a more permanent part of the skin's microbiota. They reside in the deeper layers of the epidermis and its associated glands, making them more stable and less easily removed. These resident microbes are part of the normal microbiota and play a role in protecting the skin by occupying niches that might otherwise be taken by pathogenic organisms.