Thiothrix

Thiothrix
Scientific classification
Kingdom:	Bacteria
Phylum:	Proteobacteria
Class:	Gamma Proteobacteria
Order:	Thiotrichales
Family:	Thiotrichaceae
Genus:	Thiothrix Winogradsky 1888

Thiothrix is a genus of sulfur-oxidizing bacteria, related to the genera Beggiatoa and Thioploca. Usually Gram negative but can be Gram variable rods (0.7-1.5x1.2-2.5 µm) forming ensheathed multicellular filaments attached at base and forming gonidia at the free end. The apical gonidia have gliding motility. Rosettes of the filaments are not always formed but are typical. Sulfur is deposited in invaginations within the cell membrane.

Thiothrix live primarily in flowing water containing a source of sulfide but are also present in activated-sludge waste water treatment systems. They are aerobic or microaerophilic in their oxygen requirements. Thiothrix species can be facultative autotrophs,chemoorganotrophs and mixotrophs. The temperature range for growth can vary from cold springs to hot vents while salinity can vary from fresh to ocean water. Thiothrix can be found in symbiotic relationships with other organisms.

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