Description | Gordonia terrae is a gram-positive, rod-shaped bacterium that thrives in moderate temperature environments, classified as a mesophile. It is a heterotrophic organism, meaning it relies on organic compounds for nourishment, and an obligate aerobe, requiring oxygen for its metabolic processes. This microbe is typically found in diverse ecological niches, including soil, water, and plant surfaces, contributing to its adaptability and resilience. As a gram-positive bacterium, Gordonia terrae possesses a thick peptidoglycan layer in its cell wall, which can provide resistance to certain environmental stresses and antibiotics. Its rod shape allows for efficient nutrient absorption and motility in various habitats. Being mesophilic, it grows optimally at moderate temperatures, ranging from 20°C to 45°C, making it well-suited to temperate climates. Gordonia terrae's heterotrophic nature allows it to utilize a wide variety of organic substrates, including aromatic compounds, making it particularly significant in bioremediation efforts for polluted environments. Its obligate aerobic classification necessitates the presence of oxygen for survival, thereby influencing its distribution in environments where oxygen is readily available, such as soil and water. Furthermore, Gordonia terrae has garnered attention for its role in the degradation of complex organic pollutants, including hydrocarbons, which marks its potential for use in biological cleanup processes. Its unique biochemical capabilities also allow it to act as a model organism for studying microbial interactions with pollutants and other microorganisms. The bacterium's resilience and metabolic versatility position it as a notable player in both environmental microbiology and industrial applications. |
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