Pyrococcus abyssi
A Microbial Biorealm page on the genus Pyrococcus abyssi
Classification
Higher order taxa
Domain; Phylum; Class; Order; family [Others may be used. Use NCBI link to find]
Species
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NCBI: Taxonomy |
Genus species
Description and significance
Describe the appearance, habitat, etc. of the organism, and why it is important enough to have its genome sequenced. Describe how and where it was isolated. Include a picture or two (with sources) if you can find them.
This organism was isolated from deep sea hydrothermal vents. The medium used to culture this archaea was of complex carbon sources since it does not grow well on simple carbohydrates. The sequencing of P. abyssi genome provides researcher's with a model of archaea DNA replication and gene expression.
Genome structure
Describe the size and content of the genome. How many chromosomes? Circular or linear? Other interesting features? What is known about its sequence? Does it have any plasmids? Are they important to the organism's lifestyle?
Cell structure and metabolism
Describe any interesting features and/or cell structures; how it gains energy; what important molecules it produces.
Ecology
Describe any interactions with other organisms (included eukaryotes), contributions to the environment, effect on environment, etc.
Pathology
How does this organism cause disease? Human, animal, plant hosts? Virulence factors, as well as patient symptoms.
Application to Biotechnology
Does this organism produce any useful compounds or enzymes? What are they and how are they used?
Current Research
Enter summaries of the most recent research here--at least three required
References
http://aem.asm.org/cgi/reprint/61/3/1138 Minimal Amino Acid Requirements of the Hyperthermophilic Archaeon Pyrococcus abyssi, Isolated from Deep-Sea Hydrothermal Vents
Appl. Environ. Microbiol., Mar 1995, 1138-1140, Vol 61, No. 3
Copyright © 1995, American Society for Microbiology
Edited by Stephine Chow
