GENUS ESCHERICHIA Meaning and
Definition
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Genus Escherichia refers to a group of Gram-negative bacteria that belongs to the family Enterobacteriaceae. This genus is named after the German pediatrician and bacteriologist Theodor Escherich, who discovered and described the bacterium Escherichia coli, the most well-known species within this genus. Escherichia species are rod-shaped (bacillus) bacteria and are commonly found in the intestines of both humans and animals, where they serve important roles in normal gut flora.
Escherichia species are facultative anaerobes, meaning they can survive in both aerobic and anaerobic environments. They are typically non-spore forming and motile, using flagella for movement. These bacteria are known to ferment lactose, producing acidic by-products. They are also oxidase-negative and catalase-positive.
The members of the genus Escherichia are characterized by their ability to cause various diseases in humans, ranging from mild gastrointestinal infections to more severe and life-threatening conditions. Escherichia coli, in particular, is associated with foodborne illnesses and urinary tract infections. However, some strains of Escherichia are beneficial to the host, aiding in digestion, nutrient absorption, and vitamin synthesis.
Taxonomically, the genus Escherichia is classified based on its biochemical and genetic characteristics. The classification of Escherichia species is constantly evolving as new research and advancements in genetic analysis contribute to the identification and differentiation of closely related strains.
In summary, the genus Escherichia encompasses a group of Gram-negative, lactose-fermenting bacteria commonly found in the intestines of humans and animals. While some strains can cause diseases, others play essential roles as components of the normal gut microbiota.
Common Misspellings for GENUS ESCHERICHIA
- fenus escherichia
- venus escherichia
- benus escherichia
- henus escherichia
- yenus escherichia
- tenus escherichia
- gwnus escherichia
- gsnus escherichia
- gdnus escherichia
- grnus escherichia
- g4nus escherichia
- g3nus escherichia
- gebus escherichia
- gemus escherichia
- gejus escherichia
- gehus escherichia
- genys escherichia
- genhs escherichia
- genjs escherichia
Etymology of GENUS ESCHERICHIA
The word "Genus Escherichia" is a scientific term used in the field of microbiology to refer to a specific genus of bacteria. The word "genus" comes from Latin, meaning "kind" or "type". The term "Escherichia" is derived from the name of a German-Austrian pediatrician and microbiologist, Theodor Escherich, who first described this genus of bacteria in 1885. Therefore, the term "Genus Escherichia" is a combination of the scientific classification term "genus" and the name of the scientist who discovered and named the bacteria.
