Bacteroides fragilis strain OM04-9BH

Bacteroides fragilis strain OM04-9BH is a Gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium that typically exists as single cells. This strain thrives optimally at 37.0°C, which aligns with the human body temperature, indicating its adaptation to a host-associated habitat. As a chemoorganotroph, B. fragilis strain OM04-9BH derives its energy from organic compounds, reflecting its ecological role in the gastrointestinal microbiota where it contributes to the degradation of complex carbohydrates and other organic materials. Characteristically, B. fragilis is an anaerobic organism, which means it grows in environments devoid of oxygen. This trait is particularly significant as it highlights the bacterium's ecological niche within the anaerobic conditions of the intestinal tract, where it plays a vital role in maintaining a balanced microbiome. The presence of B. fragilis strains such as OM04-9BH underscores the importance of anaerobic bacteria in gut health and the metabolic processes that contribute to nutrient absorption and overall host well-being. Understanding the specific traits of Bacteroides fragilis strain OM04-9BH can provide insights into its functional role in the host's microbiome, particularly in the metabolism of dietary fibers and the production of short-chain fatty acids, which are essential for maintaining intestinal health and influencing immune responses.