Neissers

Neisseria is a genus of Gram-negative, non-spore-forming, facultatively anaerobic bacteria. The genus is named after the German bacteriologist Friedrich Neisser, who first described the genus in 1887. Neisseria species are typically small, pleomorphic rods, and they are often found in the mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract. They are non-motile and do not form spores. The genus is further divided into two subgenera: Neisseria and Morganella. The subgenus Neisseria includes species that are typically associated with humans, while the subgenus Morganella includes species that are typically associated with animals. Neisseria species are known to cause a variety of infections, including otitis media, sinusitis, and meningitis. They are also known to be a common cause of sexually transmitted infections, such as gonorrhea. Neisseria species are typically treated with antibiotics, such as penicillin or cephalosporins. However, some strains of Neisseria have developed resistance to these antibiotics, making treatment more difficult. Neisseria species are also known to be a common cause of foodborne illnesses, such as salmonellosis. The genus Neisseria is a diverse group of bacteria that plays an important role in both human and animal health.