| Description | Geobacter sulfurreducens is a gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium that thrives in environments ranging from moderate to warm temperatures, belonging to the category of mesophiles. This chemotroph, specifically a chemoheterotroph, derives its energy by oxidizing organic matter and using the electrons to reduce elemental sulfur to hydrogen sulfide. Geobacter sulfurreducens is capable of producing energy through a process called respiration, where it uses a complex enzyme system to facilitate the transfer of electrons across its cell membrane. As a heterotroph, Geobacter sulfurreducens is unable to produce its own food through photosynthesis or chemosynthesis, and instead requires a pre-existing source of organic compounds to sustain itself. This microbe's ability to thrive in a wide range of environments, from soil to freshwater sediments, allows it to inhabit all possible body sites in all species. Due to its capacity to tolerate low oxygen levels, Geobacter sulfurreducens is classified as an obligate anaerobe, meaning it cannot survive in the presence of oxygen and displays no preference for atmospheric oxygen levels. Geobacter sulfurreducens plays a vital role in the ecosystem, serving as a vital player in the decomposition process by breaking down complex organic matter and recycling nutrients. Additionally, this microbe's ability to reduce sulfur compounds has significant implications for the environment, as it can help mitigate pollution and maintain ecological balance. Furthermore, research on Geobacter sulfurreducens has led to the development of novel biotechnology applications, including the use of its enzymes in sustainable energy production and environmental clean-up efforts. |
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