Bacteroides fragilis NCTC 9343 str. ATCC 25285

Bacteroides fragilis NCTC 9343 str. ATCC 25285 is a Gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium that typically exists as single cells and thrives optimally at 37.0°C. As a chemoorganotroph, this microbe utilizes organic compounds as its primary energy source, demonstrating its role in the catabolic processes within host-associated environments. Its anaerobic nature indicates that it does not require oxygen for growth, which is characteristic of many members of the Bacteroides genus, allowing them to inhabit oxygen-depleted niches within the gastrointestinal tract of various hosts. The habitat of Bacteroides fragilis NCTC 9343 str. ATCC 25285 is closely linked to its ecological role in the microbiome, where it contributes to the fermentation of complex polysaccharides and the production of short-chain fatty acids, which are essential for host metabolic functions. This strain exemplifies the intricate relationship between gut microbiota and host health, highlighting the importance of anaerobic bacteria in maintaining a balanced microbial community. The metabolic activities of Bacteroides fragilis are crucial not only for nutrient absorption but also for modulating the immune response, thereby underscoring its significance in the ecosystem of the gastrointestinal tract.