Sphingomonas is a versatile and hardy bacterial genus that can survive in various environments with little available nutrients. It can be used in bioremediation and biosynthesis, but some species can cause infections in humans.
Sphingomonas is a bacterial genus with at least 20 known species and a wide variety of uses and applications. As with many members of the bacterial world, researchers are learning more and more about Sphingomonas, how it survives, and where it likes to live. These bacteria are notoriously very hardy and can be found in a huge assortment of environments, demonstrating their versatility and determination to thrive wherever they are.
These bacteria form white to yellow colonies. Individuals are rod-shaped, and all members of this genus appear to be aerobic, requiring a supply of oxygen to survive. In gram stains, Sphingomonas appears to be gram negative.
One of the most notable traits of this genus is that Sphingomonas can survive in areas with little available nutrients. They can be found in soil and water and can colonize plants, corals, and objects such as shower curtains, sinks, and doorknobs. Even if very little nourishment is available, the bacteria will be fine and colonies have been discovered in excellent condition in heavily polluted areas, suggesting that Sphingomonas can live off oil and a variety of toxins.
Members of this genus can be used in bioremediation, where bacteria are released onto a contaminated area to clean it up. In the process of consuming oils, toxins, and other unwanted material in the area, the bacteria convert the materials into harmless substances that are easy and safe to clean. Bioremediation is a field of growing interest in many regions of the world as researchers respond to toxic sites requiring cleanup and as nations recognize that many substances previously thought to be safe can actually be very harmful.
Besides being used in bioremediation, these bacteria are also used in biosynthesis, where they are grown on a specific substance so that they produce useful compounds. Like when bacteria eat toxins, when they grow on the right substance, enzymes within their bodies react with the food to produce compounds that can be used in food manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and other industries.
Some species of Sphingomonas can cause infections in humans. As a general rule, bacteria are very sensitive to antibiotic therapy and these infections are not a major cause for concern. However, people with compromised immune systems can experience more serious and sometimes dangerous infections, such as bacteremia, in which bacteria colonize the bloodstream.
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