Geobacillus stearothermophilus

STRUCTURE AND PHYSIOLOGY

Geobacillus stearothermophilus is a thermophilic, aerobic bacterium that can form biofilms and heat-resistant spores. Gram stains as Gram-positive rods.

TRANSMISSION AND DISEASE

There is no public health-related significance. However, due to its thermophilic nature, this organism can be found in dairy plants and can form biofilms on stainless steel surfaces. If not stored at appropriate temperatures the growth of G.stearothermophilus can cause some canned goods to spoil.

UNIQUE OR INTERESTING FACTS

G.stearothermophilus produces a wide variety of thermostable enzymes with a range of industrial applications and is of interest to the industry.

REFERENCE(S)

P.Kotzekidou, in Encylcopedia of Food Microbiology (Second Edition), 2014.

Myrsini N. Kakagianni, in Encyclopedia of Diary Sciences (Third Edition), 2022

Photograph by Comm Tech Lab and the Center for Microbial Ecology at Michigan State University. [10]