| Description | Campylobacter sputorum is a gram-negative, spiral-shaped bacterium that thrives optimally at a temperature of around 42°C, categorizing it as a thermophilic microbe. This species is classified as a chemotroph, deriving energy through the oxidation of organic compounds. It typically inhabits various body sites, notably the gastrointestinal tracts of warm-blooded animals, including birds and mammals, contributing to its ecological presence. The gram-negative nature of C. sputorum is significant in its structural composition; it possesses a thin peptidoglycan layer surrounded by an outer membrane, which contributes to its pathogenicity and resilience against certain antibiotics. Its spiral shape, characterized by a unique helical structure, facilitates motility, allowing it to navigate through viscous environments such as mucus in the gut. The temperature preference of 42°C is indicative of its adaptation to the avian gut environment, which is hotter than that of many other organisms. Its classification as a chemotroph emphasizes its reliance on organic substrates for energy, which is crucial for its survival in nutrient-rich habitats. C. sputorum is a microaerophile, requiring reduced oxygen levels for optimal growth, which aligns with its lifestyle in the anaerobic or low-oxygen niches of the gastrointestinal tract. This oxygen sensitivity affects its cultivation in laboratory settings and underscores its ecological adaptations. This bacterium is noteworthy for its role in gastrointestinal diseases, particularly in poultry, where it can be a significant influence on food safety and public health. Research has shown that Campylobacter species, including C. sputorum, can lead to human infections, with symptoms ranging from mild gastroenteritis to severe foodborne illnesses. Its ability to form biofilms also presents challenges in food processing environments, complicating decontamination efforts. |
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