Geodermatophilus obscurus strain DSM 43161

Geodermatophilus obscurus strain DSM 43161 is a Gram-negative bacterium characterized by its filamentous cell arrangement and cocci shape. This species is classified as a chemoorganotroph, indicating that it derives its energy from organic compounds. It is strictly aerobic, requiring oxygen for growth and survival. G. obscurus is found in unique habitats, specifically within rock varnish in desert environments, where it adapts to the extreme conditions typical of these ecosystems. This organism does not exhibit mobility, as it lacks flagella, and it is free-living, suggesting that it does not depend on other organisms for its survival. The optimal growth temperature for G. obscurus is around 29°C, placing it within the mesophilic temperature range. With a single replicon, this strain demonstrates a simplified genomic structure, which is often associated with organisms adapted to stable environments. The ecological role of G. obscurus in desert habitats is likely significant, as its presence in rock varnish indicates a potential contribution to the biogeochemical cycling of organic materials in these arid ecosystems. Its ability to thrive in such a niche underscores the adaptability of microbial life and its importance in maintaining ecological balance in extreme environments.