Staphylococcus succinus

Staphylococcus succinus is a species of bacteria belonging to the genus Staphylococcus, a group of Gram-positive bacteria. It was first isolated from amber and is known for its ability to produce succinic acid, a valuable chemical used in multiple industries.

Taxonomy

The genus Staphylococcus is part of the family Staphylococcaceae, within the order Bacillales. The genus contains over 40 species, with Staphylococcus succinus being one of them. The species name 'succinus' is derived from the Latin word for amber, 'succinum', reflecting the source from which it was first isolated.

Characteristics

Staphylococcus succinus is a Gram-positive, non-motile, non-spore-forming bacterium. It is facultatively anaerobic, meaning it can grow in both the presence and absence of oxygen. The cells are typically coccoid (spherical) and occur in clusters, a characteristic feature of the genus Staphylococcus.

Metabolism

Staphylococcus succinus is known for its ability to produce succinic acid, a valuable platform chemical with wide applications in the pharmaceutical, agricultural, food, and chemical industries. The bacterium can ferment a variety of carbohydrates to produce succinic acid, including glucose, fructose, and sucrose.

Isolation and Identification

Staphylococcus succinus was first isolated from amber, a fossilized tree resin. Identification of the bacterium is typically based on its morphological and physiological characteristics, as well as genetic sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene.

Pathogenicity

There is currently no evidence to suggest that Staphylococcus succinus is pathogenic to humans or animals. However, like all bacteria, its potential for pathogenicity may depend on the host's immune status and the presence of other predisposing factors.

See Also

• Staphylococcus
• Succinic acid
• Gram-positive bacteria
• Facultative anaerobic bacteria