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Related Experiment Videos

Composite, large spirochetes from microbial mats: spirochete structure review

L Margulis1, J B Ashen, M Solé

  • 1Department of Biology, University of Massachusetts, Amherst 01003.

Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America
|August 1, 1993
PubMed
Summary

Newly discovered Spirosymplokos bacteria exhibit unique large sizes, composite structures with internal spirochetes, and phototropic behavior. These findings expand our understanding of free-living spirochete biology and adaptation.

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Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Bacteriology
  • Cell Biology

Background:

  • Free-living spirochetes are diverse bacteria with unique morphologies.
  • Previous research has not documented the complex structures observed in Spirosymplokos.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To report and characterize novel phenomena in free-living spirochetes.
  • To describe the morphology and behavior of the newly identified genus, Spirosymplokos.

Main Methods:

  • Live observation and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) of Spirosymplokos in mixed culture.
  • Enrichment of Spirosymplokos from laboratory samples under specific environmental conditions.

Main Results:

  • Discovery of large spirochetes (up to 100 microns) with internal smaller spirochetes and positive phototropic behavior.
Keywords:
NASA Discipline ExobiologyNASA Discipline Number 52-30NASA Program ExobiologyNon-NASA Center

Related Experiment Videos

  • TEM revealed composite structures, granulated protoplasmic cylinders, and subterminal periplasmic flagella.
  • Observed unique responses to air exposure, including retraction and formation of refractile membranous structures.

    • Conclusions:

    • Spirosymplokos represents a novel genus of spirochetes with unprecedented cellular complexity.
    • The bacteria's unique characteristics suggest adaptations to specific environmental niches, particularly those involving oxygen and desiccation.
    • Further research is warranted to explore the ecological role and evolutionary significance of Spirosymplokos.