| Description | Elizabethkingia meningoseptica is a Gram-negative, non-motile, rod-shaped bacterium that thrives in temperatures ranging from mesophilic to thermophilic, with a preference for temperatures between 25-40°C, belonging to the temperature preference category of Mesophilic-thermophilic. As a heterotroph, it obtains energy by breaking down organic compounds, specifically carbohydrates, amino acids, and fatty acids, and produces energy through aerobic respiration. The Gram stain signifies its outer membrane structure, which is composed of a thin peptidoglycan layer and a outer membrane containing lipopolysaccharides. E. meningoseptica is typically found in aquatic environments, such as water and soil, as well as in the gastrointestinal tracts of various animals, including humans. It is also known to colonize various body sites, including the skin, respiratory tract, and genitourinary tract. The microbe is an obligate aerobe, requiring oxygen to grow and metabolize, and is sensitive to low oxygen levels. This sensitivity to oxygen is evident in its inability to grow in anaerobic environments. The rod-shaped morphology of E. meningoseptica allows it to adapt to various environments, including those with limited space or nutrients. Its ability to thrive in a range of temperatures and oxygen levels enables it to survive in diverse ecosystems. In addition, its capacity to break down complex organic compounds makes it a key player in the decomposition process. Notably, E. meningoseptica has been linked to various human infections, including bacteremia, pneumonia, and meningitis, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. Its ability to colonize various body sites and resist the immune system's defenses makes it a significant pathogen. Furthermore, researchers have also explored the potential of E. meningoseptica as a model organism for studying bacterial metabolism and pathogenesis. As a result, a deeper understanding of this microbe's characteristics and behaviors has significant implications for our understanding of bacterial biology and its applications in medicine and biotechnology. |
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