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Glite Dictionary
Myxococcus

Myxococcus

9.9
A kind of bacteria that forms fruiting bodies, moves by gliding, and lives in groups
  • proper noun
  • /mɪkˈsɒkəs/
  • Specialized
translation icon : Myxococcus
  • Scientists observed Myxococcus forming complex fruiting bodies under the microscope.

Examples

  • Myxococcus is often used as a model organism in studies of bacterial cooperation.

  • The unique gliding movement of Myxococcus helps it survive in challenging environments.

  • The Myxococcus bacteria exhibit fascinating cooperative behavior.

  • Did you know that Myxococcus moves by gliding?

  • The bacterium Myxococcus xanthus is known for its remarkable ability to form fruiting bodies during its life cycle.

  • Researchers are studying Myxococcus to understand its unique social behavior and cooperative feeding strategies.

  • The bacterium Myxococcus plays a crucial role in the soil ecosystem by consuming harmful microbes.

Surface Forms

Myxococcus main

Morphology

Myxococcus = coccus (opaque) = myxo + coccus

The name is a taxonomic formation from Greek combining forms; the genus label is specialized and not derivable by an average B1 learner.

Etymology

Myxococcus comes from Greek parts myxo- meaning 'slime' and -coccus meaning 'berry' or 'round body'. So, think of a 'slime berry': these bacteria move in slimy groups and form round fruiting bodies, which explains the name.