| Description | Ketogulonicigenium vulgare is a Gram-positive, rod-shaped microbe that thrives in mesophilic temperatures, categorized as a chemoheterotroph, which obtains its energy by breaking down organic compounds, and can be found in various body sites of different species, including the human gut, skin, and respiratory tract, as a facultative anaerobe, capable of surviving in both aerobic and anaerobic environments. The Gram-positive stain is indicative of a thick peptidoglycan layer in its cell wall, providing resistance to certain environmental stresses. Its rod-shaped morphology allows for efficient movement and absorption of nutrients. As a mesophile, Ketogulonicigenium vulgare grows best in temperatures between 20-45°C, making it well-suited for a variety of environments. Its classification as a chemoheterotroph highlights its reliance on external organic compounds for energy production, which is achieved through the breakdown of these compounds in the presence of oxygen, when available. The ability to inhabit multiple body sites across different species demonstrates its adaptability and versatility. Furthermore, its facultative anaerobic nature enables it to thrive in diverse environments, from the oxygen-rich atmosphere to the low-oxygen conditions of the human gut. This microbe plays a crucial role in the production of vitamin C, as it is used in the industrial production of 2-ketogulonic acid, a key intermediate in the synthesis of this essential nutrient. |
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