Bifidobacterium longum subsp. suis strain LMG 21814

Bifidobacterium longum subsp. suis strain LMG 21814 is a Gram-positive, non-pathogenic bacterium primarily associated with host organisms. It exhibits an anaerobic metabolism, thriving optimally at a temperature of 37°C within a mesophilic range. The cells have a rod shape and typically arrange themselves in clusters, pairs, or singles, lacking mobility and flagella. This strain is free-living and has been identified in a variety of hosts including Homo sapiens (humans), Sus scrofa (domestic pigs), various metazoans, insects, primates, and other mammals within the vertebrate category. The presence of Bifidobacterium longum subsp. suis in these diverse hosts suggests its potential ecological role in the gut microbiota, possibly contributing to the overall health and balance of the microbial community. Notably, while the strain is linked to health effects such as bacteraemia, it is classified as non-pathogenic, indicating that it does not cause disease in its hosts. Its single replicon and single membrane structure suggest a simplified genomic organization, which may be characteristic of its lifestyle and functional capabilities. Overall, the ecological insight gleaned from Bifidobacterium longum subsp. suis strain LMG 21814 highlights its significance in host-associated environments, where it may play a vital role in maintaining gut health and supporting the complex interactions within the microbiome.