Streptomyces

1 8.2

A group of bacteria that live in soil and make many antibiotics

noun
/ˌstrɛp.təˈmaɪ.siːz/

Specialized

: Streptomyces

Many antibiotics, such as streptomycin, are derived from Streptomyces bacteria found in soil.

Examples

The Streptomyces bacteria are vital in antibiotic production.
Researchers are exploring new compounds produced by Streptomyces for use in medicine.
The discovery of Streptomyces revolutionized the treatment of bacterial infections.
Researchers study Streptomyces for new antibiotic discoveries.
Many antibiotics, such as streptomycin, are derived from Streptomyces bacteria found in soil.
Researchers are exploring new compounds produced by Streptomyces for use in medicine.
The discovery of Streptomyces revolutionized the treatment of bacterial infections.

Compounds

Streptomyces erythreus

Specialized

8.7

A kind of bacteria that makes the antibiotic erythromycin used to treat infections

Streptomyces scabies

Specialized

7.7

A bacterium that makes brown, rough spots on potatoes

Surface Forms

Streptomyces singular

Streptomyceses plural

Etymology

Streptomyces comes from the Greek parts strepto- meaning 'twisted' and myces meaning 'fungus', because these bacteria grow as long, twisted threads that look like a mushroom in the soil. So thinking of 'twisted fungus' helps you remember these soil bacteria that make many antibiotics, such as streptomycin.