Plastorhodobacter

Plastorhodobacter is a genus of bacteria in the family Rhodobacteraceae. It is a type of purple bacteria, which are known for their ability to perform photosynthesis under anaerobic conditions. The genus Plastorhodobacter is currently composed of a single species, Plastorhodobacter blasticus.

Taxonomy[edit | edit source]

The genus Plastorhodobacter is classified within the family Rhodobacteraceae, in the order Rhodobacterales, class Alphaproteobacteria, phylum Proteobacteria, and domain Bacteria. The genus was first described in 2001 by Labrenz et al., who isolated Plastorhodobacter blasticus from a marine environment.

Characteristics[edit | edit source]

Members of the genus Plastorhodobacter are Gram-negative bacteria, characterized by their rod-shaped cells and their ability to perform photosynthesis under anaerobic conditions. They are also capable of chemotrophic growth. The cells are motile, with a single polar flagellum.

Ecology[edit | edit source]

Plastorhodobacter species are found in marine environments, where they contribute to the carbon cycle through their photosynthetic activity. They are also involved in the sulfur cycle, as they are capable of oxidizing sulfide and thiosulfate to sulfate.

Medical relevance[edit | edit source]

While Plastorhodobacter species are not typically associated with human disease, they are part of the broader group of purple bacteria that have been studied for their potential use in bioremediation and as a source of natural pigments.