Vibrionaceae

Vibrionaceae is a family of Gram-negative bacteria, included in the order Vibrionales. The bacteria in this family are characterized by their curved rod shape. They are typically found in aquatic environments, both saltwater and freshwater. Some species are bioluminescent, and are found in symbiotic relationships with marine life. Other species are pathogenic for humans and other animals.

Characteristics

Members of the Vibrionaceae family are facultative anaerobes, meaning they can survive in both oxygen-rich and oxygen-poor environments. They are also halophilic, or salt-loving, and are often found in marine environments. Some species are capable of bioluminescence, a trait they share with certain other marine bacteria.

Pathogenic species

Several species of Vibrionaceae are pathogenic for humans. The most well-known of these is Vibrio cholerae, the causative agent of cholera. Other pathogenic species include Vibrio vulnificus, Vibrio parahaemolyticus, and Vibrio alginolyticus. These species can cause a range of illnesses, from mild gastroenteritis to life-threatening septicemia.

Symbiotic species

Some species of Vibrionaceae are found in symbiotic relationships with marine animals. For example, Vibrio fischeri is found in the light organs of the Hawaiian bobtail squid, where it produces light that the squid uses for camouflage.

See also

• Vibrio
• List of bacterial families

References

Vibrionaceae Resources
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