Thermoanaerobacterium

Thermoanaerobacterium is a genus of thermophilic, strictly anaerobic, Gram-positive bacteria in the family Thermoanaerobacteraceae, within the phylum Firmicutes. Members are typically rod-shaped and grow at elevated temperatures, with optimum growth around 60°C and a temperature range roughly 50–70°C. They are fermentative microbes that metabolize carbohydrates to a mixture of end-products, commonly including ethanol, acetate, lactate, carbon dioxide, and hydrogen; some strains also produce formaldehyde or formate in small amounts.

Ecology and habitat: These organisms are found in hot, anaerobic environments such as geothermal springs, hot compost piles, and industrial anaerobic digesters. They contribute to the thermal degradation of organic matter and can participate in microbial communities that process plant-derived polysaccharides at high temperatures.

Physiology and metabolism: Thermoanaerobacterium species are obligate or strongly obligate anaerobes that rely on fermentation for energy. They are capable of utilizing a range of carbohydrates, including glucose and xylose, and can produce hydrogen as a byproduct of metabolism. Their thermophilic nature and ability to operate at elevated temperatures help reduce the risk of contamination in mixed-culture or industrial processes.

Industrial relevance: Several species have been studied for biofuel and biochemical production, particularly ethanol, at high temperatures. Notable species include Thermoanaerobacterium saccharolyticum and Thermoanaerobacterium thermosaccharolyticum, which have been explored for fermentation of lignocellulosic hydrolysates and potential use in consolidated bioprocessing strategies.

Taxonomy: The genus comprises multiple species, including T. saccharolyticum and T. thermosaccharolyticum. They are part of the broader group of thermophilic, anaerobic Firmicutes.