Phocaeicola vulgatus strain AF31-3

Phocaeicola vulgatus strain AF31-3 is a Gram-positive, anaerobic, non-motile rod-shaped bacterium. This strain is characterized by its single-cell arrangement and is known to inhabit host-associated environments, specifically within Homo sapiens. It possesses a unique structural feature of having two membranes and a single replicon, which is typical for certain bacterial species. As a mesophilic organism, P. vulgatus strain AF31-3 thrives within moderate temperature ranges, making it well-suited for the human microbiome. Its biotic relationship is classified as free-living, indicating that it can exist independently but also interacts with its host. The strain is cataloged under the accession number QRQI00000000.1, providing a reference for further genetic and phenotypic studies. The presence of P. vulgatus in the human gut microbiota suggests its potential role in maintaining gut health, possibly through contributions to digestion or modulation of the immune system. This bacterium's adaptability to anaerobic conditions highlights its importance in the gut environment, where oxygen levels are low, and its structural characteristics may facilitate interactions within the complex microbial community. Understanding P. vulgatus and its ecological niche could provide insights into the dynamics of gut microbiota and their influence on human health.