| Description | Capnocytophaga ochracea is a gram-negative, curved rod-shaped bacterium that thrives in environments with temperatures ranging from mesophilic to thermophilic, making it a mesophilic-thermophilic organism. It is a chemoheterotroph, meaning it obtains energy by breaking down organic compounds, and its metabolism is fueled by the oxidation of glucose. This bacterium is capable of producing energy through aerobic respiration, allowing it to grow and multiply in the presence of oxygen. The gram-staining properties of C. ochracea are characteristic of gram-negative bacteria, indicating the presence of a thin peptidoglycan layer in its cell wall. Its curved rod shape, also known as a vibrio, allows it to colonize and navigate through biofilms and other complex environments. C. ochracea can be found inhabiting various body sites, including skin, mucous membranes, and the respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts. It is an obligate anaerobe, requiring anaerobic conditions to survive and replicate, and is therefore adapted to environments with low oxygen levels. In addition to its unique metabolic and physical characteristics, C. ochracea is also notable for its ability to produce enzymes that degrade complex organic compounds, such as cellulose and pectin. This feature allows it to play a crucial role in decomposing plant material and recycling nutrients in ecosystems. Furthermore, C. ochracea has been found to be associated with periodontitis, a bacterial infection that affects the gums and supporting tissues of the teeth, making it a significant pathogen in oral health. Its ability to form biofilms and adhere to surfaces also makes it a formidable colonizer of medical devices and other surfaces, highlighting the importance of proper disinfection and sanitation practices to prevent its spread. |
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