Sterolibacterium

Sterolibacterium is a genus of bacteria in the family Rhodocyclaceae. It is a type of anaerobic bacteria, meaning it does not require oxygen to grow and survive. The genus was first described in 2007, and currently includes two species: Sterolibacterium denitrificans and Sterolibacterium olei.

Characteristics

Sterolibacterium are Gram-negative bacteria, characterized by their double-layered cell walls that stain red or pink in a Gram stain test. They are rod-shaped, and are typically found in environments such as soil and water.

The bacteria in this genus are capable of denitrification, a process in which nitrate is reduced to produce nitrogen gas. This process is important in the nitrogen cycle, as it helps to return nitrogen from the soil back to the atmosphere.

Species

Sterolibacterium denitrificans

Sterolibacterium denitrificans was the first species to be identified in this genus. It was isolated from a denitrification reactor treating nitrate-contaminated water. This species is capable of anaerobic growth by denitrification, using sterol as a carbon source.

Sterolibacterium olei

Sterolibacterium olei is the second species identified in this genus. It was isolated from oil-contaminated soil. This species is capable of degrading hydrocarbons, making it potentially useful in the bioremediation of oil-contaminated environments.

Applications

Due to their ability to degrade hydrocarbons and perform denitrification, Sterolibacterium species have potential applications in environmental bioremediation. They could be used to treat oil-contaminated soil or water, or to reduce nitrate levels in agricultural runoff.

See also

• List of bacteria genera
• Rhodocyclaceae
• Denitrification
• Bioremediation