Enterococcus cecorum DSM 20682 = ATCC 43198

Enterococcus cecorum DSM 20682 (ATCC 43198) is a Gram-positive, coccoid-shaped bacterium that thrives at mesophilic temperatures, is classified as a chemoheterotroph, and is a facultative anaerobe. This microbe predominantly colonizes the gastrointestinal tract of various species, particularly in birds, and can also be found in the fecal matter and environments associated with these animals.As a Gram-positive bacterium, Enterococcus cecorum possesses a thick peptidoglycan layer in its cell wall, which retains the crystal violet stain during the Gram staining procedure, giving it a characteristic purple color. Its coccoid shape allows for the formation of chains or pairs, a common feature of enterococci, facilitating its adaptation to various niches in the gastrointestinal tract. Preferring to grow within a temperature range typically between 20-45°C, it exhibits resilience in various conditions, enabling survival in diverse environmental settings. Being a chemoheterotroph, Enterococcus cecorum relies on organic compounds for both energy and carbon, utilizing a range of substrates to thrive. Its facultative anaerobic nature allows it to grow in both the presence and absence of oxygen, making it versatile in different gut environments.Notably, Enterococcus cecorum has garnered attention due to its potential role in opportunistic infections, particularly in immunocompromised hosts or in conditions where normal gut flora is disrupted. The bacterium's ability to acquire antibiotic resistance genes poses significant clinical challenges, drawing interest in studies focused on its transmission dynamics and pathogenic potential. Moreover, its presence in both avian and mammalian hosts highlights its ecological importance and adaptability across species.