Delftia acidovorans

Delftia acidovorans

Delftia acidovorans

Delftia acidovorans is a gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium that belongs to the family Comamonadaceae. It was first isolated in 1990 from a clinical specimen and was initially classified as Pseudomonas acidovorans. However, further studies revealed distinct characteristics, leading to its reclassification as Delftia acidovorans.

Taxonomy and Classification

Delftia acidovorans is a member of the genus Delftia, which is named after the city of Delft in the Netherlands. The genus Delftia comprises several species of environmental and clinical significance. Delftia acidovorans is the most well-known and extensively studied species within this genus.

Morphology and Physiology

Delftia acidovorans cells are typically rod-shaped and measure approximately 1-2 μm in length. They are motile due to the presence of flagella, which enable them to move in liquid environments. The bacterium is capable of both aerobic and anaerobic respiration, allowing it to survive in a wide range of environments.

Habitat and Distribution

Delftia acidovorans is commonly found in various natural environments, including soil, water, and plant surfaces. It has also been isolated from clinical specimens, such as blood, urine, and respiratory secretions. The bacterium is known for its ability to adapt to different ecological niches, making it a versatile and widespread organism.

Metabolism and Ecology

Delftia acidovorans is known for its metabolic versatility and can utilize a wide range of carbon sources for growth. It is capable of degrading various organic compounds, including aromatic hydrocarbons, fatty acids, and sugars. This metabolic flexibility allows the bacterium to play a crucial role in the biodegradation of environmental pollutants.

Importance in Biotechnology

Due to its ability to degrade a wide range of organic compounds, Delftia acidovorans has attracted attention in the field of biotechnology. It has been utilized in bioremediation processes to remove pollutants from contaminated environments. Additionally, its ability to produce extracellular enzymes has made it a potential candidate for various industrial applications.

Clinical Significance

While Delftia acidovorans is generally considered to be of low pathogenicity, it has been associated with opportunistic infections in immunocompromised individuals. It has been isolated from patients with respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, and bloodstream infections. However, such infections are relatively rare, and the bacterium is not considered a major human pathogen.

See Also

• Comamonadaceae
• Bioremediation
• Gram-negative bacteria
• Pseudomonas acidovorans