Acetanaerobacterium

Acetanaerobacterium is a genus of bacteria in the family Clostridiaceae. The genus contains a single species, Acetanaerobacterium elongatum, which is a strictly anaerobic, gram-positive bacterium.

Taxonomy

The genus Acetanaerobacterium was first described in 1995 by Collins et al. The genus name is derived from the Latin words acetum (vinegar) and anaerobium (living without air), referring to the bacterium's ability to produce acetic acid in anaerobic conditions. The species epithet elongatum refers to the elongated shape of the bacterial cells.

Morphology

Acetanaerobacterium elongatum is a rod-shaped bacterium, with cells typically measuring 0.5-1.0 µm in diameter and 2.0-6.0 µm in length. The cells are gram-positive and non-spore-forming. They are typically arranged in pairs or short chains.

Metabolism

Acetanaerobacterium elongatum is a strictly anaerobic bacterium, meaning it does not require oxygen for growth. It is capable of fermenting a variety of carbohydrates, including glucose, fructose, and xylose, to produce acetic acid as the major end product. The bacterium is also capable of reducing sulfate to sulfide.

Habitat and Distribution

Acetanaerobacterium elongatum has been isolated from a variety of environments, including soil, water, and the gastrointestinal tract of animals. The bacterium is thought to play a role in the degradation of organic matter in anaerobic environments.

Clinical Significance

While Acetanaerobacterium elongatum is not typically associated with human disease, it has been isolated from clinical specimens on rare occasions. The bacterium's role in human health and disease is currently not well understood.

See Also

• Clostridiaceae
• Anaerobic bacteria
• Gram-positive bacteria