Saccharomyces capillitii is a type of yeast that has a complex spelling and pronunciation. The word "Saccharomyces" is pronounced as /sækəroʊˈmaɪsiz/ with the stress placed on the third syllable. The second part of the word, "capillitii", is pronounced as /kæpɪˈlɪti/ and has the stress placed on the second syllable. The word "capillitii" is derived from the Latin word "capillus," meaning hair, which refers to the hair-like morphology of the yeast cells. Despite its complicated spelling, Saccharomyces capillitii is an important yeast species used in various industries, such as brewing and fermentation.
Saccharomyces capillitii is a species of yeast that falls under the genus Saccharomyces. It is characterized by its capability to ferment carbohydrates, particularly sugars, and produce carbon dioxide, ethanol, and other by-products. S. capillitii is commonly found in various environments, including soil, plant material, and the gastrointestinal tract of humans and animals.
This yeast species has a distinct appearance under a microscope, with individual cells typically measuring around 5 to 7 micrometers in diameter. They possess a spherical to elliptical shape and have a smooth surface. Furthermore, S. capillitii cells reproduce asexually through budding, whereby a smaller daughter cell forms and eventually separates from the parent cell to begin its own growth.
S. capillitii plays a crucial role in various industries, including baking, brewing, and winemaking, due to its fermentative abilities. In baking, this yeast is commonly used as a leavening agent to create an airy texture in bread and other baked goods. Moreover, it is employed in brewing and winemaking processes to convert sugars into alcohol, contributing to the characteristic flavors and aromas of these beverages.
While S. capillitii is generally harmless, in some cases, it can cause opportunistic infections, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. These infections commonly manifest as skin infections, most notably in the scalp, resulting in symptoms such as itching, redness, and the formation of small pustules.
Overall, Saccharomyces capillitii is a yeast species known for its fermentative capabilities, commonly used in various industries, but can also pose a risk of infection in certain circumstances.
A form found on the scalp in certain cases of alopecia.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word Saccharomyces capillitii is derived from Greek and Latin roots.
The genus name Saccharomyces comes from the Greek words saccharon meaning sugar and myces meaning fungus. This reflects the fact that members of this genus are often involved in sugar fermentation processes.
The species name capillitii is derived from Latin and means of the hair. This refers to the characteristic appearance of the Saccharomyces capillitii cells, which have hair-like projections known as pseudohyphae.
So, overall, Saccharomyces capillitii can be interpreted as sugar fungus with hair-like projections.