Definition

Noun: 1. A taxonomic genus of bacteria: "Genus Agrobacterium" is the scientific name for a specific group of small, rod-shaped, motile bacteria. These bacteria are known for their ability to reduce nitrates and, most notably, for their capacity to cause tumor-like growths called galls on the stems and roots of plants.

Usage Notes

• This term is used exclusively in scientific, microbiological, and botanical contexts. It is a formal taxonomic classification.
• The word "genus" is always part of the term when referring to this classification. In informal scientific discussion, the genus name "Agrobacterium" alone may be used, but the full, precise term is "Genus " or "".

Examples of Usage

• Scientific Description:
  • The study focused on the pathogenic mechanisms of genus Agrobacterium.
  • Genus Agrobacterium contains species that are important tools in plant genetic engineering.
• Identification:
  • The gall formation was consistent with an infection by a member of genus Agrobacterium.
  • Bacteria from genus Agrobacterium were isolated from the diseased plant tissue.

Advanced Usage

• Binomial Nomenclature: In the full scientific name of a species within this genus, "Agrobacterium" is the genus name. For example, is a well-known species within this genus that causes crown gall disease.
• Taxonomic Hierarchy: "Genus Agrobacterium" is a rank within the biological classification system, falling under the family Rhizobiaceae.

Variants and Related Words

• Agrobacterium (n): The abbreviated form of the genus name, commonly used in scientific literature after the full name has been introduced. (e.g., "Several strains were tested.")
• Agrobacterial (adj): Pertaining to or caused by bacteria of the genus Agrobacterium. (e.g., "agrobacterial infection").
• Tumor-inducing (Ti) plasmid: A specific circular DNA molecule found in pathogenic species that is responsible for transferring genes into plant cells, causing gall formation. This is a key feature of the genus.

Synonyms

• Scientific Synonym: There are no common English synonyms. In older taxonomic literature, some species now in were classified differently, but "Genus Agrobacterium" is the current accepted name.

Related Phrases and Contexts

• Crown gall disease: The plant disease most commonly associated with , a species within this genus.
• Plant pathogen: A disease-causing agent in plants; members of genus are considered plant pathogens.
• Horizontal gene transfer: The process by which these bacteria naturally transfer a segment of their DNA into a plant genome, a unique trait exploited in biotechnology.

Noun

1. small motile bacterial rods that can reduce nitrates and cause galls on plant stems