Description | Acinetobacter johnsonii is a gram-negative, coccobacillus-shaped bacterium that thrives in moderate temperatures, making it mesophilic. As a chemoheterotroph, it derives energy and carbon from organic compounds, utilizing a variety of carbon sources for growth. This microbe is typically found in diverse environments, including the skin, respiratory tract, and gastrointestinal tract of humans, as well as in soil and water ecosystems. Characterized by its robust adaptability, *A. johnsonii* plays a notable role in human health and the environment. In humans, it is frequently discovered as part of the normal flora, particularly in healthy individuals’ skin and mucosal surfaces. However, it can also be an opportunistic pathogen, especially in immunocompromised patients, where it can be implicated in infections ranging from urinary tract infections to pneumonia. The bacterium is classified as a facultative anaerobe, allowing it to thrive in both aerobic and anaerobic conditions, which aids in its survival across various host environments and contributes to its pathogenic potential. In terms of environmental significance, *Acinetobacter johnsonii* can degrade various pollutants, showcasing its utility in bioremediation efforts. Its ability to adapt to different habitats, coupled with a complex metabolic repertoire, enables it to participate actively in nutrient cycling. This microbe has also gained attention in microbiology research due to its emerging resistance to multiple antibiotics, raising concerns about its role in healthcare-associated infections and prompting investigations into its genomic and resistance mechanisms. Overall, *A. johnsonii* is a versatile microbe that reflects the intricate relationships between human health and microbial ecology. |
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