Chloroflexi facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Chloroflexi |
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Chloroflexi
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Chloroflexi
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Chloroflexi are a special group of bacteria. They are known for making their own energy from light. These tiny living things get their name from a green color, which helps them use light.
Chloroflexi often look like long, thin strings under a microscope. They can also move around by gliding. They are very flexible about where they live. They can survive both with and without oxygen.
What are Chloroflexi?
Chloroflexi are a type of bacteria. They are one of four main groups that use light to make energy. They have a special green pigment, or color, that helps them do this. This pigment is usually found in parts of their cells that collect light.
These bacteria are often described as "filamentous." This means they look like tiny threads or strings. They can also move around on surfaces. This movement is called bacterial gliding.
How do they get energy?
Chloroflexi get their energy from light. This process is called phototrophy. However, their way of doing it is a bit different from plants or other photosynthetic bacteria. They do not produce oxygen when they make energy.
This special method is called photoheterotrophy. It means they use light for energy, but they also need to take in some food from their surroundings. Other bacteria might just use light and carbon dioxide.
Life without oxygen
Chloroflexi are very adaptable. They can live in places where there is oxygen. But they can also survive and grow where there is no oxygen at all. This ability is called being "facultatively aerobic."
Their unique way of getting energy and living in different environments makes them interesting. Scientists have studied their DNA. This research suggests that Chloroflexi developed their special abilities separately from other bacteria.
Where do they live?
Chloroflexi are found in many different places. They often live in hot springs. You might see them in microbial mats. These are thick layers of different microorganisms.
They can also be found in other environments. These include freshwater and marine sediments. Their ability to live with or without oxygen helps them survive in various habitats.
