Definition

Noun: 1. A taxonomic genus of bacteria: "Genus Bacteroides" is the type genus of the family Bacteroidaceae. It comprises Gram-negative, rod-shaped, anaerobic bacteria. These bacteria do not form endospores, do not produce pigment, and are commonly found living in the intestines of humans and other animals.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Bacteria belonging to the genus Bacteroides are a major component of the human gut microbiome.
  • The study focused on the metabolic activities of genus Bacteroides species.
  • Some species within genus Bacteroides can be opportunistic pathogens.

Advanced Usage

• In scientific nomenclature: The name is always italicized () when referring to the genus in formal scientific writing. When used in a general sense, it may not be italicized.
  • The paper described a new species of Bacteroides isolated from the colon.*

Variants and Related Words

• Bacteroidaceae (n): The family to which the genus belongs.
• Bacteroides (n): When used alone, it typically refers to the genus. This is the standard form used in microbiology.
  • The sample was tested for the presence of Bacteroides.

Synonyms

• Bacteroides (This is the direct synonym, as "genus Bacteroides" is the full formal name, and "Bacteroides" is the abbreviated standard form in context.)

Different Meanings / Contexts

• In general biology: Refers specifically to the taxonomic rank (genus) within the classification of life.
• In medicine and microbiology: Often refers to a group of bacteria that are normal gut flora but can cause infection under certain conditions, such as intra-abdominal abscesses.

Noun

1. type genus of Bacteroidaceae; genus of Gram-negative rodlike anaerobic bacteria producing no endospores and no pigment and living in the gut of man and animals