| Description | Veillonella ratti is a gram-negative, coccobacillus-shaped microbe that thrives in mesophilic temperatures, classified as a chemoheterotroph, and can be found in various body sites, including the oral cavity, gut, and urogenital tract, of numerous species, including humans, animals, and birds, and is typically an obligate anaerobe. The gram-negative characteristic indicates that the microbe's cell wall contains a thin peptidoglycan layer, which is responsible for its susceptibility to certain antibiotics. Its coccobacillus shape allows it to adhere to and colonize various surfaces, facilitating its role in different ecosystems. As a mesophile, Veillonella ratti grows best in moderate temperatures, typically between 20-45°C, which is consistent with the temperatures found in most animal hosts.As a chemoheterotroph, Veillonella ratti relies on organic compounds for energy and carbon sources, which it obtains from its host or environment. This characteristic enables the microbe to thrive in diverse environments, from the oral cavity to the gut, where nutrient-rich substrates are readily available. The microbe's ability to colonize various body sites is a testament to its adaptability and versatility. Being an obligate anaerobe, Veillonella ratti requires the absence of oxygen to grow and survive, which is why it is often found in low-oxygen environments, such as the gut and oral cavity. Veillonella ratti plays a significant role in the fermentation of lactate and other organic compounds, producing propionic acid, acetic acid, and carbon dioxide as byproducts, which can contribute to the development of various diseases, including dental caries and periodontal disease. The microbe's metabolic activities also influence the balance of the host's microbial community, highlighting the complex interactions between Veillonella ratti and its environment. |
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