Elusimicrobia

Elusimicrobia is a phylum of bacteria that was first described in 2018. It is characterized by its unique cellular features, including a unique cell wall composition and the presence of a type of membrane protein called a lipopolysaccharide. The phylum is named after the Greek words "elusis" meaning hidden or elusive, and "microbia" meaning small life, reflecting the difficulty in detecting and studying these bacteria due to their small size and unusual characteristics.

Elusimicrobia bacteria are typically found in marine environments, where they play a role in the biogeochemical cycling of elements such as nitrogen and sulfur. They are often associated with deep-sea hydrothermal vents and cold seeps, where they may contribute to the breakdown of organic matter and the formation of mineral deposits.

The phylum consists of a single class, Elusimicrobiae, and a single order, Elusimicrobiales. The type genus is Elusimicrobium, which contains a single species, Elusimicrobium minutum. This species was first isolated from a deep-sea hydrothermal vent in the Pacific Ocean.

Elusimicrobia bacteria are of interest to scientists due to their potential to provide insights into the evolution of life on Earth and the diversity of microbial ecosystems. However, their study is challenging due to their small size and the need for specialized techniques to culture and analyze them. Further research is needed to better understand the ecology, physiology, and genetic makeup of these elusive bacteria.