| Description | Leuconostoc mesenteroides is a microorganism that thrives in temperatures ranging from mesophilic to thermophilic, characterized as "mesophilic" on the temperature preference category. This bacterium metabolizes as a facultative heterotroph, meaning it can utilize both organic and inorganic compounds as energy sources. Energy production occurs through fermentation, a process in which it breaks down glucose into organic compounds and releases CO2 and ethanol as byproducts. Leuconostoc mesenteroides is a Gram-positive bacterium, meaning it has a thick peptidoglycan layer in its cell wall that stains purple under the Gram stain. Its shape is typically coccoid or ovoid, with a diameter ranging from 0.5 to 1.5 micrometers. This microbe can be found in various body sites, including the human gastrointestinal tract, skin, and respiratory tract, as well as in food products such as fermented vegetables and fruits. Leuconostoc mesenteroides is an anaerobe that prefers low oxygen levels, with an oxygen preference classified as "facultative anaerobe". This means it can grow both in the presence and absence of oxygen, although it grows faster in anaerobic conditions. Leuconostoc mesenteroides is a lactic acid bacterium, capable of producing lactic acid as a byproduct of fermentation. This property allows it to contribute to the preservation and fermentation of food products. Furthermore, its ability to produce antimicrobial compounds has led to its exploration as a potential probiotic. |
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