clostridium
Definition
- Noun:
- A type of anaerobic bacterium: "Clostridium" refers to a genus of rod-shaped, spore-forming bacteria that typically thrive in environments without oxygen.
- Characteristic cell shape: The bacterial cell is often described as spindle-shaped, with a swollen center when an endospore (a dormant, resistant structure) forms inside it.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- Clostridium botulinum is the bacterium that causes botulism.
- The wound became infected with a species of clostridium.
- Clostridium bacteria are commonly found in soil and the intestinal tracts of animals.
Advanced Usage
- Scientific classification: The term is used in taxonomy to refer to a specific genus within the family Clostridiaceae.
- The genus Clostridium includes both pathogenic and non-pathogenic species.
- Medical and environmental context: Often discussed in relation to disease, decomposition, or industrial processes.
- Clostridium difficile infections are a major concern in healthcare settings.
Variants and Related Words
- Clostridial (adj): Pertaining to or caused by clostridium bacteria.
- Clostridial myonecrosis is a severe muscle infection.
- Clostridia (n, plural): A common plural form for multiple bacteria of this genus.
- The sample contained various clostridia.
Synonyms
- Anaerobic bacillus: A general term for rod-shaped bacteria that live without oxygen, which includes clostridia.
- Spore-forming bacterium: Describes bacteria that produce endospores, a key feature of the genus.
Related Phrases and Terms
- Clostridium perfringens: A specific species causing gas gangrene and food poisoning.
- Clostridium tetani: The causative agent of tetanus.
- Clostridial toxin: A poisonous substance produced by clostridium bacteria.
Noun
-
spindle-shaped bacterial cell especially one swollen at the center by an endospore
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