uraniireducens

Uraniireducens is a bacterial species belonging to the phylum Nitrospirae. It is a facultative anaerobe, meaning it can survive in the presence of oxygen but does not require it for growth. This bacterium was first isolated from a deep subsurface mine in South Africa. The name "uraniireducens" reflects its ability to reduce uranium. Specifically, it can reduce soluble U(VI) to insoluble U(IV), a process that can immobilize uranium in the environment. This characteristic makes it of interest in the field of bioremediation, particularly for the cleanup of uranium-contaminated groundwater. Uraniireducens plays a role in the biogeochemical cycling of metals, contributing to the transformation and sequestration of uranium. Its metabolic pathways are adapted to low-nutrient, anoxic environments, which are typical of deep subsurface ecosystems. Further research continues to explore its genetic makeup and metabolic potential for environmental applications.