| Description | Acinetobacter radioresistens is a Gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium that is mesophilic, meaning it thrives in moderate temperatures, and is a Chemoheterotroph, requiring organic compounds for energy and carbon sources, which can be found in all body sites in various species. As a Facultative Anaerobe, it can survive in both aerobic and anaerobic environments, making it a versatile microorganism. The Gram-negative characteristic refers to its cell wall composition, which lacks a thick peptidoglycan layer, making it more resistant to certain antibiotics. Its rod shape allows it to move and colonize efficiently, while its mesophilic nature enables it to grow in a wide range of temperatures, typically between 20-40°C. As a Chemoheterotroph, Acinetobacter radioresistens relies on external sources of organic compounds, such as sugars and amino acids, to sustain its metabolic processes. Its ability to inhabit all body sites in various species, from humans to animals, highlights its adaptability and potential to cause infections. The bacterium's facultative anaerobic nature allows it to thrive in diverse environments, from the oxygen-rich conditions of the skin to the low-oxygen environments of the gut. Acinetobacter radioresistens has been found to be highly resistant to ionizing radiation, which is reflected in its name, and is capable of surviving in environments with high levels of radiation, making it a subject of study in the fields of microbiology and astrobiology, particularly in the context of searching for life on other planets. |
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