Microbe Identification
Microbe nameGeobacillus thermodenitrificans
NCBI Taxonomy ID33940
DescriptionGeobacillus thermodenitrificans is a Gram-positive, rod-shaped bacterium that thrives in environments with temperatures ranging from 40°C to 60°C, making it a thermophilic microbe. It is a chemotroph, obtaining its energy through the oxidation of organic compounds, specifically denitrifying nitrate to nitrite and then to nitrogen gas. This microbe is a heterotroph, relying on external sources of carbon and energy. As a chemotroph, G. thermodenitrificans produces energy through anaerobic respiration, utilizing nitrate as the terminal electron acceptor. This process yields ATP and N2 gas as byproducts. Interestingly, this microbe can also grow in oxygen-rich environments, making it a facultative anaerobe, capable of adapting to changing oxygen levels. Geobacillus thermodenitrificans has been isolated from various environments, including soil, hot springs, and geothermal areas, where it can be found in association with other thermophilic microorganisms. Its wide distribution across different body sites and ecosystems makes it a versatile and resilient microbe. G. thermodenitrificans is particularly notable for its ability to denitrify and reduce nitrate to nitrite and nitrogen gas, a process that plays a crucial role in the nitrogen cycle. This microbe's enzymes responsible for denitrification have been investigated for potential applications in bioremediation and wastewater treatment. Furthermore, research has shown that G. thermodenitrificans can produce bioactive compounds, such as antibiotics and enzymes, which exhibit promising antibacterial and antifungal activities. These findings highlight the bacterium's potential as a source of novel bioproducts and therapeutics. In conclusion, Geobacillus thermodenitrificans is a thermophilic, Gram-positive bacterium that thrives in a wide range of environments, utilizing denitrification as its primary energy source. Its versatility, adaptability, and enzyme-producing capabilities make it an important microbe in ecosystems and a promising candidate for biotechnological applications.
Microbe Taxonomy
SuperkingdomBacteria
KingdomEubacteria
PhylumFirmicutes
ClassBacilli
OrderBacillales
FamilyBacillaceae
GenusGeobacillus
Species thermodenitrificans
Microbe Properties
Gram staining propertiesPositive
ShapeBacilli
MobilityYes
Flagellar presenceYes
Number of membranes1
Oxygen preferenceFacultative aerobe
Optimal temperature65
Temperature rangeThermophilic
HabitatSpecialized
Biotic relationshipFree living
Cell arrangementNot Available
SporulationSporulating
MetabolismHydrocarbon degrading - Degrades long-chain alkanes
Energy sourceChemoorganotroph
Host and Biospecimens
HostBody siteBiospecimenData SourceReference
HumanGutFecesManually AnnotatedNot Available