| Description | Leuconostoc citreum is a gram-positive, coccus-shaped microbe that thrives in psychrotrophic temperature conditions, classified as a chemoheterotroph, and can be found in various body sites across different species, including the gastrointestinal tract, oral cavity, and skin. As a facultative anaerobe, Leuconostoc citreum can survive in both aerobic and anaerobic environments, allowing it to adapt to diverse ecological niches. The gram-positive characteristic indicates the presence of a thick peptidoglycan layer in its cell wall, providing resistance to certain environmental stresses. Its coccus shape enables the microbe to withstand various physical forces, such as osmotic pressure and mechanical stress. As a psychrotroph, Leuconostoc citreum grows optimally at temperatures between 0°C and 30°C, making it well-suited for refrigerated and chilled food environments. As a chemoheterotroph, Leuconostoc citreum relies on organic compounds for energy and carbon, which it obtains from its surroundings. This metabolic characteristic allows the microbe to thrive in environments with abundant organic matter, such as food products and plant materials. The ability to inhabit various body sites across different species highlights the microbe's versatility and adaptability. Leuconostoc citreum's facultative anaerobic nature enables it to adjust its metabolic pathways according to the availability of oxygen, ensuring its survival in diverse environments. This microbe plays a significant role in the spoilage of refrigerated foods, particularly meat and dairy products, due to its ability to produce carbon dioxide, lactic acid, and other metabolites that contribute to off-flavors and textures. |
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