The correct spelling of the bacterium "Micrococcus paramelitensis" can be tricky to remember, but its pronunciation can be deciphered using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The word is pronounced as /maɪkrəʊˈkɒkəs/ /ˌpærəmɛlɪˈtɛnsɪs/. Breaking it down, the first word "Micrococcus" is pronounced as "my-kroh-kok-uhs", followed by "paramelitensis" pronounced as "par-uh-mel-uh-ten-sis". It's essential to spell and pronounce scientific terms accurately for clear communication in scientific research and academic discussions.
Micrococcus paramelitensis is a gram-positive and non-motile bacterium belonging to the Micrococcaceae family. This bacterial species is spherical in shape (coccus) and has a very small size (micro), typically measuring about 0.5 to 3 micrometers in diameter. It is a facultative anaerobe, meaning it can survive in both the presence and absence of oxygen.
Micrococcus paramelitensis is commonly found in the environment, particularly in soil, water, and dust. It is known to exhibit a high tolerance to salt, allowing it to thrive in saline habitats. The bacterium is characterized by its ability to produce a yellowish pigment, which contributes to its distinctive appearance on agar plates.
In terms of pathogenicity, Micrococcus paramelitensis is considered an opportunistic pathogen. While it is generally regarded as non-pathogenic, it can cause infections in individuals with compromised immune systems or those who have undergone surgical procedures. Infections associated with this bacterium are typically localized and often involve the skin and soft tissues, leading to conditions such as wound infections or abscesses.
Identification and differentiation of Micrococcus paramelitensis from other bacteria within the Micrococcus genus can be accomplished through various biochemical tests, including catalase and coagulase reactions. Additionally, molecular techniques, such as DNA sequencing, may be employed for accurate species identification.
Overall, Micrococcus paramelitensis is a small, non-motile, gram-positive bacterium found in various environments, possessing the ability to cause opportunistic infections in individuals with weakened immune systems.
An organism resembling M. melitensis, and possibly only a strain of this, said to cause para-undulant fever.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "Micrococcus paramelitensis" originates from Greek and Latin roots. Let's break it down:
1. Micrococcus:
- The prefix "micro-" comes from the Greek word "mikros", meaning small or minute.
- The word "coccus" originates from the Greek word "kokkos", meaning berry or grain. In biological terms, it refers to a bacterium with a spherical shape.
2. Paramelitensis:
- The prefix "para-" in this case means close to or resembling.
- The term "melitensis" is derived from the Latin word "Melita", which means Malta. It refers to a specific strain or characteristic associated with the location.
Therefore, "Micrococcus paramelitensis" can be understood as a small spherical bacteria, which closely resembles or has a characteristic associated with Malta.