| Description | Cytophaga hutchinsonii is a psychrophilic, chemo-organoheterotrophic bacterium that thrives in cold environments, typically found in soil, sediment, and aquatic ecosystems. Its metabolism is based on the breakdown of complex organic compounds, such as proteins and carbohydrates, for energy production. This process involves the reduction of oxygen to produce ATP, as it is an obligate aerobe, requiring oxygen for survival. The bacterium's cell shape is helical, with a Gram-negative staining pattern. Cytophaga hutchinsonii is a slender, helical-shaped bacterium, typically ranging from 0.3 to 0.5 μm in width and 2 to 5 μm in length. Its Gram-negative staining pattern indicates the presence of an outer membrane containing lipopolysaccharides and a thin peptidoglycan layer. This microbe is found in various environments, including soil, freshwater lakes, and coastal sediments, where it plays a crucial role in decomposing organic matter. Its ability to thrive in cold temperatures makes it a key player in the carbon cycle of these ecosystems. In addition to its ecological importance, Cytophaga hutchinsonii has also been found to possess the ability to degrade complex organic compounds, such as lipids and cellulose. This unique characteristic has implications for its potential applications in bioremediation and biotechnology. |
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