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Glite Dictionary
thiobacteria

thiobacteria

9.9
Bacteria that get energy by turning sulfur into other chemicals
  • noun
  • /ˌθaɪoʊˈbækˌtɪəriə/
  • Specialized
: tiobacterias
  • Thiobacteria play a significant role in the cycling of sulfur in the environment.

Examples

  • Thiobacteria thrive in environments rich in sulfur, such as hot springs and hydrothermal vents.

  • Many species of thiobacteria are essential for converting sulfur compounds into energy.

  • Researchers studied thiobacteria to understand how they contribute to soil fertility.

  • The presence of thiobacteria can accelerate the breakdown of certain inorganic compounds.

  • The thiobacteria play a crucial role in the sulfur cycle.

  • Many thiobacteria thrive in extreme environments.

  • The study of thiobacteria reveals their importance in maintaining ecological balance in sulfur-rich ecosystems.

Synonyms

Thiobacillus
vsthiobacteria
  • Specialized
1 9.9

A rod-shaped bacterium that gets energy from sulfur, often found in soil and sewage

is the general name emphasising their identity as sulfur-oxidizers

Surface Forms

thiobacteria singular
thiobacteria plural

Morphology

thiobacteria = bacteria (semi-transparent) = thio + bacteria

The combining form 'thio-' meaning 'sulfur' is technical and not widely known to B1 learners, though the overall relation to 'bacteria' is clear.

Etymology

Thiobacteria starts with thio- meaning 'sulfur' and ends with bacteria, which are tiny living cells. So thiobacteria are bacteria that use or change 'sulfur', which explains why they help move sulfur in soil and water.