Thiotrichales

Thiotrichales is an order of proteobacteria. The bacteria in this order are characterized by their filamentous shape and are known for their ability to oxidize reduced sulfur compounds, which they use as an energy source. This process is important in the sulfur cycle.

Taxonomy

The order Thiotrichales belongs to the class Gammaproteobacteria, in the phylum Proteobacteria. It includes the following families:

• Thiotrichaceae
• Francisellaceae
• Piscirickettsiaceae

Characteristics

Thiotrichales are Gram-negative, rod-shaped, and often form filaments. They are chemolithotrophs, meaning they obtain energy by oxidizing inorganic compounds. In the case of Thiotrichales, the inorganic compound is usually a reduced sulfur compound, such as hydrogen sulfide.

Ecology

Thiotrichales play a significant role in the sulfur cycle. They oxidize reduced sulfur compounds to sulfate, which can then be used by other organisms. Some species are also found in symbiotic relationships with marine invertebrates, such as clams and tubeworms.

Pathogenicity

Some members of the order Thiotrichales are pathogenic. For example, species in the family Piscirickettsiaceae are known to cause disease in fish.

See also

• Sulfur bacteria
• Sulfur cycle

References

Thiotrichales Resources
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