Cellulomonas
From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia
Cellulomonas is a genus of Gram-positive bacteria that belongs to the family Cellulomonadaceae. The genus was first described by Bergey et al. in 1923. The name Cellulomonas is derived from the Latin words cellula meaning a small cell, and monas meaning a unit, referring to the organism's ability to break down cellulose.
Characteristics[edit | edit source]
Members of the genus Cellulomonas are aerobic bacteria that are rod-shaped and non-motile. They are known for their ability to degrade cellulose, a complex carbohydrate that is a major component of the cell walls of plants. This ability is due to the presence of cellulase, an enzyme that breaks down cellulose into simpler sugars.
Metabolism[edit | edit source]
Cellulomonas species are heterotrophic organisms, meaning they obtain their energy from organic substances. They are capable of fermenting a variety of sugars, including glucose, fructose, and mannose, to produce lactic acid, acetic acid, and ethanol. Some species are also capable of nitrate reduction, a process in which nitrate is reduced to nitrite.
Ecology[edit | edit source]
Cellulomonas species are commonly found in soil, where they play a crucial role in the decomposition of plant material. They are also found in the digestive tracts of some insects, where they assist in the breakdown of cellulose.
Clinical significance[edit | edit source]
While Cellulomonas species are generally not pathogenic, they have been isolated from human clinical specimens on rare occasions. However, their role in human disease is not well understood.
Species[edit | edit source]
There are several recognized species within the genus Cellulomonas, including Cellulomonas flavigena, Cellulomonas fimi, and Cellulomonas uda. Each species has unique characteristics and ecological roles.
See also[edit | edit source]
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