| Description | Desulfobulbus propionicus is a species of microbe that thrives in temperatures within the mesophilic range, specifically between 25-40°C, categorizing it as a mesophilic organism. This microbe is a chemotroph, indicating that it derives its energy from chemical reactions rather than sunlight. Specifically, D. propionicus is a chemoheterotroph, as it uses organic compounds as a source of energy and carbon. It produces energy through the process of anaerobic respiration, where it breaks down organic compounds to produce ATP. Gram-staining reveals that D. propionicus is a gram-negative bacterium, meaning its cell wall lacks a thick peptidoglycan layer. This microbe has a bacillus shape, characterized by a rod-like structure. Desulfobulbus propionicus is primarily found in aquatic environments, including sediments, estuaries, and marine ecosystems. It has been isolated from various body sites, including seawater, sediment, and the gastrointestinal tract of marine animals. In terms of oxygen preference, D. propionicus is an obligate anaerobe, meaning it dies in the presence of oxygen. This is likely due to the fact that it uses anaerobic respiration to produce energy, which is incompatible with oxygen's ability to react with electrons and halt energy production. Desulfobulbus propionicus plays a crucial role in the carbon cycle by contributing to the decomposition of organic matter in marine sediments. It does this by breaking down complex organic compounds into simpler molecules, releasing nutrients back into the environment. This process also helps to sequester carbon, making it a key player in mitigating climate change. In addition, D. propionicus has been used as a model organism in research on sulfate-reducing bacteria, providing valuable insights into the mechanisms underlying this process. |
|---|
