Moorella (bacterium)

Moorella is a genus of Gram-positive, spore-forming bacteria belonging to the family Lachnospiraceae. These anaerobic bacteria are known for their ability to reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) to acetate, a process known as acetogenesis.

Characteristics:

• Morphology: Moorella species are typically rod-shaped.
• Gram Stain: They stain Gram-positive, though the stain can sometimes be variable.
• Metabolism: They are anaerobic and utilize the Wood-Ljungdahl pathway for acetogenesis. This metabolic pathway allows them to fix CO2 and produce acetate as an end product. Some species can also utilize other substrates like sugars and organic acids.
• Spore Formation: Moorella are spore-forming bacteria, allowing them to survive in harsh environmental conditions. The spores are often heat-resistant.
• Habitat: Moorella species are found in a variety of anaerobic environments, including soil, sediments, and the gastrointestinal tracts of animals. They have also been identified in industrial settings, such as bioreactors and waste treatment plants.

Significance:

Moorella bacteria play an important role in carbon cycling in anaerobic environments. Their ability to convert CO2 to acetate is of interest for biotechnological applications, such as the production of biofuels and bioproducts. Research is ongoing to optimize Moorella strains for industrial processes. Certain species can also be involved in the biocorrosion of metals.

Notable Species:

• Moorella thermoacetica: One of the most well-studied species, known for its efficient acetogenic capabilities and tolerance to high temperatures.
• Moorella glycerini: Another notable species within the genus.

Classification:

The taxonomic classification of Moorella has undergone revisions over time, and phylogenetic analyses continue to refine our understanding of the relationships between different species within the genus and its broader taxonomic context.