Bacteroides fragilis 638R

Bacteroides fragilis 638R is a Gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium that primarily exists as single cells and thrives in anaerobic environments, with an optimal growth temperature of 37.0°C. As a chemoorganotroph, this microbe derives its energy from organic compounds, which aligns with its habitat as a host-associated organism, often found in the intestinal microbiota of humans and other animals. Bacteroides fragilis species are known for their significant role in the gut microbiome, where they contribute to the breakdown of complex carbohydrates and the production of short-chain fatty acids, which are crucial for gut health and host metabolism. The ability of B. fragilis 638R to survive in the oxygen-deprived conditions of the gut underscores its adaptation to a niche that is essential for maintaining a balanced microbiome. Understanding the metabolic profiles and ecological roles of bacteria like B. fragilis 638R can provide insights into their contributions to host health and the potential implications of dysbiosis in various diseases.