BACILLUS ALVEI Meaning and
Definition
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Bacillus alvei is a species of anaerobic, Gram-positive, rod-shaped bacterium that belongs to the family Bacillaceae. This bacterium typically forms spores, which are dormant, toughened structures that allow it to survive in harsh conditions, including extreme temperatures and lack of nutrients.
Bacillus alvei is commonly found in soil, water, and various environmental sources, but it can also be found in the gastrointestinal tracts of bees, where it acts as a harmless commensal organism. In some cases, however, it has been associated with causing diseases in bees, such as larval infections and adult dysentery.
In terms of its biology, Bacillus alvei is characterized by its ability to ferment glucose and produce acid, a trait that distinguishes it from other Bacillus species. Moreover, its growth is inhibited by the presence of oxygen, thus making it anaerobic. This bacterium also produces a variety of enzymes, including proteases and lipases, which help it break down proteins and lipids for nutrients.
In humans, Bacillus alvei is considered an opportunistic pathogen, meaning it can cause infections in individuals with compromised immune systems or those undergoing medical procedures. Infections caused by Bacillus alvei are rare but can include bacteremia, pneumonia, and wound infections.
Due to its potential pathogenicity and association with bee diseases, Bacillus alvei has garnered interest in the fields of microbiology and veterinary medicine, as researchers seek to better understand its virulence factors, transmission routes, and potential therapeutic interventions.
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Causes foul-brood in bees.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for BACILLUS ALVEI
- vacillus alvei
- nacillus alvei
- hacillus alvei
- gacillus alvei
- bzcillus alvei
- bscillus alvei
- bwcillus alvei
- bqcillus alvei
- baxillus alvei
- bavillus alvei
- bafillus alvei
- badillus alvei
- bacullus alvei
- bacjllus alvei
- backllus alvei
- bacollus alvei
- bac9llus alvei
- bac8llus alvei
- baciklus alvei
- baciplus alvei
Etymology of BACILLUS ALVEI
The word "Bacillus" is derived from the Latin word "bacillum" which means "small rod". It is a common term used in biology to refer to rod-shaped bacteria.
The word "alvei" is the genitive form of "alveus", a Latin word meaning "honeycomb". This term specifically refers to the cells or compartments in which honeybees store honey.
Therefore, "Bacillus alvei" can be translated as the "rod-shaped bacteria found in honeycombs", highlighting the specific habitat in which this bacterium was initially discovered.
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