Desulfosalsimonas

Desulfosalsimonas is a genus of bacteria from the family of Desulfobacteraceae. The bacteria in this genus are known for their ability to reduce sulfate, a process that is important in the global sulfur cycle.

Taxonomy

The genus Desulfosalsimonas belongs to the family Desulfobacteraceae, which is part of the order Desulfobacterales, in the class Deltaproteobacteria. This class is a member of the phylum Proteobacteria, which is one of the largest groups of bacteria.

Characteristics

Desulfosalsimonas bacteria are Gram-negative, rod-shaped, and motile. They are anaerobic, meaning they can survive in environments without oxygen. These bacteria are known for their ability to reduce sulfate, a process that is important in the global sulfur cycle.

Metabolism

Desulfosalsimonas bacteria are chemoautotrophs, meaning they obtain energy by oxidizing inorganic substances and use carbon dioxide as their primary source of carbon. They are capable of reducing sulfate to hydrogen sulfide, a process known as sulfate reduction. This process is an important part of the global sulfur cycle.

Ecological Role

Desulfosalsimonas bacteria play a crucial role in the global sulfur cycle. They are found in a variety of environments, including marine sediments, where they contribute to the reduction of sulfate to hydrogen sulfide. This process is important for the recycling of sulfur in the environment.

See Also

• Sulfur cycle
• Sulfate-reducing bacteria
• Desulfobacteraceae