| Description | Enterococcus faecium is a Gram-positive, spherical-shaped microbe that thrives in mesophilic temperatures, categorized as a Chemoheterotroph, and can be found in all body sites of various species, including humans, where it resides as a commensal or opportunistic pathogen, and is typically a Facultative Anaerobe. As a Gram-positive microbe, E. faecium has a thick peptidoglycan layer in its cell wall, providing it with resistance to environmental stresses. Its spherical shape allows it to maintain a stable structure, enabling it to survive in diverse environments. The mesophilic temperature preference of E. faecium indicates that it grows best in moderate temperatures, typically between 20-45°C, making it well-suited to inhabit the human body. As a Chemoheterotroph, E. faecium relies on external sources of organic matter for energy and carbon, which it obtains by breaking down complex molecules. Its presence in all body sites, from the skin to the gastrointestinal tract, highlights its adaptability and ability to colonize various niches. The facultative anaerobic nature of E. faecium enables it to thrive in both aerobic and anaerobic environments, allowing it to survive in areas with varying oxygen levels. E. faecium has developed resistance to multiple antibiotics, making it a significant concern in hospital-acquired infections, and its ability to form biofilms enhances its resistance to antimicrobial agents, allowing it to persist in the environment and cause disease. |
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