Description | Enterococcus sulfureus is a Gram-positive, coccus-shaped bacterium that thrives in a temperature range of 25-45°C, categorizing it as a mesophilic microorganism. This microbe is a facultative chemoheterotroph, meaning it can produce energy through the breakdown of organic compounds and also utilize light energy when available. It obtains its energy by fermenting sugars and other organic molecules, producing acetoin, acetate, and carbon dioxide as byproducts. Enterococcus sulfureus is a Gram-positive bacterium, meaning it has a thick peptidoglycan layer in its cell wall, which stains purple with the Gram stain. Its coccus shape gives it a spherical or oval appearance under a microscope, with some species capable of forming chains or clusters. This microbe is found in various body sites, including skin, mucous membranes, and the gastrointestinal tract, making it a common resident of the human microbiome. It also inhabits soil, water, and other environmental surfaces. Enterococcus sulfureus is an facultative anaerobe, meaning it can survive in the presence or absence of oxygen. However, it grows optimally in aerobic conditions, indicating a preference for atmospheric oxygen. This microbe's unique ability to grow under various conditions, including at different temperatures and with or without oxygen, allows it to thrive in a wide range of environments, making it a resilient and adaptable species. In addition to its ability to adapt to diverse conditions, Enterococcus sulfureus has been found to play a role in human health, particularly in cases of gastrointestinal infections and inflammation. It has also been linked to the development of biofilms, complex communities of microorganisms that adhere to surfaces and play a crucial role in the development of diseases. |
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