Sporosarcina ureae facts for kids

Sporosarcina ureae is a tiny living thing, a type of bacteria. It's the main example for its group (called a genus). This bacterium is often found in soil. It's special because it can break down a substance called urea. That's why it's named "ureae"! Its cells are round, like tiny balls (we call this coccoid). It can move around using small, whip-like tails called flagella. Sporosarcina ureae gets its food from other things (it's heterotrophic). It also needs oxygen to live, so it's called aerobic.

What it Does

Sporosarcina ureae is very good at using urea. It has a special tool inside it called an enzyme. This enzyme is named urease. Urease helps the bacteria break down urea into simpler parts. This process is important in nature.

How it Helps the Soil

When Sporosarcina ureae breaks down urea, it releases important nutrients. These nutrients can then be used by plants. This helps the soil stay healthy. It's like recycling for the environment!

Where it Lives

You can often find Sporosarcina ureae in soil. It especially likes places where there's a lot of urine. For example, it's common in meadows where cows graze. It also lives in manure. These places have plenty of urea for the bacteria to use.