| Description | Escherichia marmotae is a Gram-negative bacterium that exhibits a single-cell arrangement and is classified as a nonsporulating organism. This mesophilic microbe thrives optimally at 37°C, which aligns with the body temperature of many warm-blooded hosts, suggesting it may have evolved mechanisms to inhabit mammalian environments. E. marmotae is a chemoheterotroph, deriving its energy from organic compounds, which reflects its adaptability to various ecological niches, including diverse habitats likely associated with its mammalian hosts. This bacterium can function as a facultative anaerobe, allowing it to survive in both oxygen-rich and oxygen-poor environments. This adaptability enhances its ecological versatility, enabling it to exploit different substrates and thrive in varying conditions. Although the precise details of its metabolism remain unknown, its resilience suggests that E. marmotae may play nuanced roles in its ecosystems, potentially influencing nutrient cycling and microbial community dynamics. Notably, E. marmotae has been found in association with ground squirrels, indicating a close relationship with its host. This association may facilitate mutualistic interactions, such as aiding in digestion or influencing the host's health through microbial balance. The presence of E. marmotae raises interesting questions about the co-evolution of host animals and their associated microbiota, emphasizing the importance of microbial diversity in maintaining ecosystem stability and host vitality. |
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