Gracilibacteria

Gracilibacteria is a phylum of bacteria that was first described in 2013. The name, derived from Latin "gracilis" (slender) and Greek "bakterion" (rod), reflects the characteristic morphology of these microorganisms. Gracilibacteria are typically rod-shaped and are known for their thin cell walls. They are obligate anaerobes, meaning they cannot survive in the presence of oxygen, and are commonly found in diverse anaerobic environments, including the guts of animals and in sediments.

Members of the Gracilibacteria phylum are often identified through molecular phylogenetic analyses, as they can be difficult to culture in laboratory settings. Their metabolic capabilities are still under investigation, but preliminary studies suggest they play roles in the breakdown of complex organic matter. Gracilibacteria are considered an important component of microbial communities, contributing to nutrient cycling in their respective habitats. Research into this phylum is ongoing, aiming to further elucidate their ecological significance and evolutionary history.

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