Selenococcales

Selenococcales is an order of bacteria within the class Bacilli, phylum Firmicutes. These bacteria are characterized by their ability to reduce selenium to elemental selenium, hence the name "selenococcales." They are typically aerobic, Gram-positive, and rod-shaped. Selenococcales are found in various environments, including soil, water, and the gastrointestinal tracts of animals. They play a role in the selenium cycle, contributing to the biogeochemical cycling of selenium in ecosystems. Some species within this order are known for their ability to produce exopolysaccharides, which can have biotechnological applications. The taxonomy of Selenococcales is continually evolving as new species are discovered and characterized.