Fusobacterium nucleatum subsp. nucleatum ATCC 25586

Fusobacterium nucleatum subsp. nucleatum ATCC 25586 is a Gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium classified as a chemoheterotroph, which means it derives its energy from organic compounds. This species is an anaerobe, thriving in environments devoid of oxygen, and is typically found in host-associated habitats. The bacterium does not exhibit mobility, despite having flagella, indicating a more complex interaction with its environment. The optimal growth temperature for F. nucleatum is 37°C, placing it within the mesophilic temperature range. This characteristic aligns with its association with warm-blooded hosts, where it can thrive and replicate. Notably, F. nucleatum subsp. nucleatum does not form spores and has a simple genetic structure, consisting of a single replicon. In terms of its ecological role, F. nucleatum is recognized for its pathogenicity, contributing to various human diseases, particularly in the oral cavity and gastrointestinal tract. It exists as a free-living organism, indicating its ability to survive outside a host, yet it often engages in biotic relationships that may contribute to its pathogenic potential. The presence of two membranes surrounding the bacterium is typical of Gram-negative organisms and may play a role in its interactions with host immune responses. Understanding the traits of Fusobacterium nucleatum subsp. nucleatum can provide insights into its role in both health and disease, highlighting the delicate balance of microbial life in host-associated environments.