Sphaerotilus
bacteria
Quick Summary
Sphaerotilus is a genus of bacteria characterized by filaments that exhibit false branching and reproduce by both conidia and swarmers. These microorganisms are commonly found in slow-running water and are often attached to submerged surfaces.12
A well-known species is Sphaerotilus natans. In polluted water, its sheaths are thin and colorless, but in unpolluted water containing iron, the sheaths become yellow-brown and iron-encrusted, forming long, slimy tassels.2
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