| Description | Desulfovibrio piger is a member of the Desulfovibrio genus, a group of sulfate-reducing bacteria that thrive in a variety of environments. According to the Microbe Directory, this microbe prefers temperatures between 25-40°C, categorizing it as mesophilic. Its metabolism is chemotrophic, meaning it uses chemical energy sources, and specifically, it is a heterotroph, relying on organic compounds for sustenance. Energy production occurs through anaerobic respiration, in which it reduces sulfur compounds to produce ATP. The bacterium is a rod-shaped, Gram-negative microbe, with a characteristic spiral or curved morphology. It is found in various body sites, including the gastrointestinal tract, liver, and skin, across multiple species. In terms of oxygen preference, D. piger is an obligate anaerobe, meaning it cannot survive in the presence of oxygen and instead thrives in low-oxygen or anaerobic environments. Desulfovibrio piger plays a crucial role in the breakdown of organic matter, particularly in the digestive system, where it helps to degrade complex nutrients. Its ability to thrive in low-oxygen environments allows it to contribute to the decomposition process in a wide range of ecosystems, from soil to aquatic environments. Notably, D. piger has been implicated in several human diseases, including gastrointestinal disorders and periodontal disease, highlighting the importance of understanding its role in human health. Furthermore, its ability to reduce sulfur compounds makes it an important player in the Earth's sulfur cycle, influencing the global carbon cycle and ecosystem functioning. |
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