Salinarchaeum laminariae
Classification
Archaea, Euryarchaeota, Halobacteria, Halobacteriales, Halobacteriaceae
Species
Salinarchaeum laminariae
Description and Significance
Salinarchaeum laminariae is a gram-negative halophilic archaea in the shape of pleomorphic rods. It is mesophilic, growing between 20 and 50°C with an optimum growth temperature of 37°C. S. laminariae will lyse in distilled water. A minimum sodium chloride concentration of 8 to 12 % is required to maintain cellular integrity. It will grow in a pH range of 5.5 to 9.5. Optimal growth is achieved with a pH range of 7 to 7.5. This is the model organism for the genus Salinarchaeum.
S. Laminariae was isolated from the brine of the commercially cultivated seaweed, Laminaria japonica. This seaweed is preserved by salting and storage at temperatures below freezing. When returned to room temperatures, the seaweed turns red and begins to rot. Halophiles from the family Halobacteriaceae are noted for forming red pigments. Viable cells from this family have been isolated from salt crystals and successfully cultured. It is suspected that S. Laminariae, along with other members of halobacteriaceae, is causing the spoilage of commercially packaged seaweed after introduction through the salt crystals used in the brining process.
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?
Cell Structure, Metabolism and Life Cycle
Interesting features of cell structure; how it gains energy; what important molecules it produces.
Ecology and Pathogenesis
Habitat; symbiosis; biogeochemical significance; contributions to environment.
If relevant, how does this organism cause disease? Human, animal, plant hosts? Virulence factors, as well as patient symptoms.
References
Author
Page authored by _____, student of Prof. Jay Lennon at Michigan State University.
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