Microbe Identification
Microbe nameLactobacillus brevis
NCBI Taxonomy ID1580
DescriptionLactobacillus brevis is a mesophilic bacterium, thriving in temperatures ranging from 20°C to 45°C. It belongs to the category of Heterotrophs, as it requires organic compounds as its energy source. This microbe is capable of fermenting carbohydrates, producing energy through anaerobic glycolysis. It is a Gram-positive bacterium, characterized by its thick peptidoglycan cell wall. Lactobacillus brevis typically exhibits a rod-shaped morphology. This microbe can be found in various body sites, including the human oral cavity, gastrointestinal tract, and skin. It is an obligate aerobe, requiring the presence of oxygen to grow and thrive. In terms of its metabolism, Lactobacillus brevis is a heterotrophic fermenter, utilizing organic compounds as its energy source. It produces energy through anaerobic glycolysis, where pyruvate is converted into lactate. This microbe's ability to ferment carbohydrates makes it an important inhabitant of the gut microbiome, where it contributes to the breakdown of complex polysaccharides. Lactobacillus brevis is also notable for its ability to produce antimicrobial compounds, such as bacteriocins, which help to inhibit the growth of other microorganisms. This remarkable trait allows it to colonize and thrive in environments where other microorganisms may compete for resources. As a resident of the human body, Lactobacillus brevis plays a vital role in maintaining the balance of the microbiome. Its ability to break down complex carbohydrates and produce antimicrobial compounds makes it an important player in the defense against pathogenic microorganisms. Furthermore, research has shown that Lactobacillus brevis has potential applications in the production of fermented foods, such as sauerkraut and pickles, and even in the development of probiotics for human health.
Microbe Taxonomy
SuperkingdomBacteria
KingdomEubacteria
PhylumFirmicutes
ClassBacilli
OrderLactobacillales
FamilyLactobacillaceae
GenusLactobacillus
Species brevis
Subspeciesgravesensis
Microbe Properties
Gram staining propertiesPositive
ShapeBacilli
MobilityYes
Flagellar presenceNo
Number of membranes1
Oxygen preferenceFacultative anaerobe
Optimal temperature25
Temperature rangeMesophilic
HabitatMultiple
Biotic relationshipFree living
Cell arrangementChains - Singles
SporulationChains - Singles
MetabolismSaccharolytic, respiratory or fermentative
Energy sourceNot Available
Host and Biospecimens
HostBody siteBiospecimenDetailsData SourceReference
HumanNot AvailableHuman Oral Microbiome Database (HOMD)20624719
HumanLarge intestineNot AvailableBacDive34718743