Agathobacter rectalis strain AF06-19

Agathobacter rectalis strain AF06-19 is a Gram-positive, rod-shaped bacterium classified as a chemoheterotroph, meaning it derives its energy from organic compounds. This strain is an anaerobe, thriving in environments devoid of oxygen, and is known to be free-living, indicating it does not rely on a host for survival, although it is associated with Homo sapiens. The optimal growth temperature for A. rectalis strain AF06-19 is 37°C, which falls within the mesophilic temperature range. This suggests that the organism is well-adapted to the human body temperature, potentially playing a role in human gastrointestinal microbiota. A. rectalis strain AF06-19 has a single replicon and one membrane, indicating a relatively simple cellular organization. It is nonsporulating, which means it does not form spores to survive adverse conditions. The strain is non-motile and possesses flagella, though its lack of mobility suggests that it relies on other means for dispersal within its habitat. The presence of A. rectalis in various habitats, particularly within the human gut, highlights its potential ecological role in maintaining gut health and contributing to the complex microbial community. Its ability to utilize organic compounds may be significant in nutrient cycling and interaction with other gut microbiota, emphasizing its importance in the broader ecological context of the gastrointestinal environment.