Acholeplasmataceae

Acholeplasmataceae is a family of bacteria within the order Acholeplasmatales. This family is characterized by the absence of a cell wall, which gives them a pleomorphic (variable) shape. The Acholeplasmataceae family includes two genera: Acholeplasma and Phytoplasma.

Acholeplasma, a genus in the Acholeplasmataceae family

Characteristics

Members of the Acholeplasmataceae family are unique among bacteria due to their lack of a cell wall. This characteristic allows them to assume a variety of shapes, a trait known as pleomorphism. They are also resistant to antibiotics that target cell wall synthesis, such as penicillin.

Genera

The Acholeplasmataceae family includes two genera:

• Acholeplasma: This genus includes species that are found in a wide range of environments, including soil, plants, and animals. Some species are pathogenic, causing diseases in plants and animals.

• Phytoplasma: Phytoplasmas are plant pathogens that are transmitted by insects. They cause a variety of diseases, including yellowing, stunting, and witch's broom (a proliferation of shoots).

Pathogenicity

Some members of the Acholeplasmataceae family are pathogenic. For example, certain species of Acholeplasma can cause diseases in animals, including poultry and cattle. Phytoplasmas, on the other hand, are known to cause a variety of plant diseases.

Treatment and Control

Due to their resistance to antibiotics that target cell wall synthesis, treatment of diseases caused by Acholeplasmataceae can be challenging. Control measures often involve managing the vectors that transmit these bacteria, such as insects in the case of phytoplasmas.

See also

• Mollicutes
• Mycoplasma
• Cell wall