Geothermobacter

Geothermobacter is a genus of anaerobic bacteria belonging to the phylum Nitrospirae. These microorganisms are notable for their ability to thrive in high-temperature environments, typically found in hydrothermal vents and other geothermally active areas. The genus currently contains a few characterized species, with Geothermobacter thermologizer being one of the most studied. These bacteria are chemolithoautotrophs, meaning they obtain energy from inorganic compounds and carbon from carbon dioxide. They are known to utilize hydrogen as an electron donor and sulfate or elemental sulfur as electron acceptors, playing a role in sulfur cycling in their native environments. Their metabolic capabilities make them of interest for bioremediation and biotechnology applications, particularly in the degradation of pollutants under extreme conditions. Research into Geothermobacter continues to explore its unique physiology and potential ecological significance in deep-sea and terrestrial geothermal ecosystems.