Streptococcus agalactiae strain NCTC8181

Streptococcus agalactiae strain NCTC8181 is a Gram-positive bacterium characterized by its cocci shape and arrangement in chains or pairs. As a facultative anaerobe, it can thrive in both the presence and absence of oxygen, with an optimal growth temperature of 37°C, placing it within the mesophilic temperature range. This strain is non-motile and lacks flagella. The habitat of S. agalactiae NCTC8181 is primarily host-associated, with a notable range of hosts including Homo sapiens (humans), Bos taurus (cattle), and various fish species such as Oreochromis niloticus (Nile tilapia) and Lates calcarifer (barramundi). The bacterium exhibits a free-living biotic relationship but is also associated with several significant health effects. These include serious conditions like bacteremia, pneumonia, meningitis, and necrotizing fasciitis in humans. In cattle, it is implicated in bovine mastitis and subclinical mastitis, which can lead to economic losses in dairy production. The strain has a single replicon and one membrane, which is typical for many bacteria. The diverse range of health effects associated with S. agalactiae NCTC8181 highlights its potential impact on both human and animal health, suggesting its ecological role as a pathogen in various environments. Understanding this strain's behavior and interactions with its hosts is essential for developing strategies to manage infections and mitigate their effects on health and agriculture.