| Description | Streptococcus cristatus is a Gram-positive, spherical-shaped microbe that thrives in the mesophilic temperature range of 25-40°C, indicating a preference for moderate temperatures. As a chemoheterotroph, this microbe obtains its energy by breaking down organic compounds, relying on external sources of carbon and energy. Its metabolism is characterized by the production of ATP through cellular respiration, primarily relying on the citric acid cycle and oxidative phosphorylation. Streptococcus cristatus is distributed throughout various body sites, including the skin, respiratory, gastrointestinal, and genitourinary tracts, as well as the oral cavity, making it a ubiquitous inhabitant of the human host. As an obligate aerobe, this microbe requires the presence of oxygen to survive and grow, which is consistent with its ability to tolerate high levels of oxygen and thrive in aerobic environments. Physically, Streptococcus cristatus presents as small, non-motile, spherical cells that typically range in diameter from 0.5-1.5 μm. Under the Gram stain, its cell walls exhibit a characteristic blue color due to the presence of peptidoglycan, which is a key component of bacterial cell walls. Notably, Streptococcus cristatus has been linked to various diseases, such as upper respiratory tract infections, skin infections, and endocarditis. Additionally, it has been used as a model organism for studying bacterial communication and biofilm formation, providing valuable insights into the complex interactions between microorganisms and their hosts. |
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