myxobacter

Thân thiện

A scientist observes myxobacter colonies under a microscope.

Definition

Noun 1. A type of bacteria: A rod-shaped bacterium of the order Myxococcales, characterized by its ability to move by gliding and to form complex, multicellular fruiting bodies when nutrients are scarce. These bacteria are typically found in soil, decaying plant matter, or animal dung.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The researcher studied the social behavior of the myxobacter.
  • A myxobacter colony was discovered in the forest soil sample.
  • This myxobacter species is known for its unique life cycle.

Advanced Usage

• As a model organism: In scientific contexts, "myxobacter" is often discussed as a model for studying bacterial multicellularity, social behavior, and development.
  • The myxobacter provides insights into the evolution of cooperative behavior.

Variants and Related Words

• Myxobacteria (n, plural): The more common plural form referring to these bacteria as a group.
  • Myxobacteria are fascinating microorganisms.
• Myxobacterial (adj): Relating to or characteristic of myxobacteria.
  • The study focused on myxobacterial motility.

Synonyms

• Slime bacteria
• Gliding bacteria (This describes their movement, though not all gliding bacteria are myxobacteria.)

Notes on Meaning

The term "myxobacter" is highly specialized and used almost exclusively in microbiology. Its core meaning is defined by its taxonomic order (Myxococcales) and its distinctive biological characteristics: gliding motility and complex life cycle involving fruiting bodies.

Học thuật

Noun

1. bacteria that form colonies in self-produced slime; inhabit moist soils or decaying plant matter or animal waste

Từ đồng nghĩa

• myxobacteria
• myxobacterium
• gliding bacteria
• slime bacteria