What is Clostridium Bacteria?
Clostridium bacteria are bacteria which belong to the genus Clostridium. An estimated 100 species can be found in this genus, and they live all over the world. Humans are primarily interested in a handful of species which can be pathogenic in nature, along with species which can be used for certain industrial applications. Like many bacteria, Clostridium are ubiquitous in the environment; for example, they are commonly present in the intestinal tracts of humans.
These rod shaped bacteria stain gram positive, and they are capable of forming endospores. These spores can go into dormancy to resist hostile conditions, and they are capable of enduring many measures used to sterilize environments to remove bacteria. The spores will awaken when conditions appear safe, allowing the bacteria to flourish. Most Clostridium bacteria need anaerobic environments to live, and they produce energy by fermentation, usually generating an unpleasant odor as a byproduct.
Several species can be used in the production of ethanol, as they generate ethanol as a byproduct of fermentation. This fact has been of interest to companies which work on alternative fuels. Research on additional Clostridium bacteria species may reveal other potential applications for these common bacteria. These bacteria are also known nitrogen fixers in soil, contributing a benefit to gardens and crops.
For humans, four species are of particular interest: C. botulinum, C. perfringens, C. tetani, and C. difficile. These bacteria are responsible for botulism, gas gangrene, tetanus, and enterocolitis, and they can pose a serious problem for medical professionals. The botulism-causing bacteria thrives in rotten food, especially in sealed containers which people may think are safe, for example, causing numerous cases of food-borne illness which can be life threatening. C. difficile inhabits the intestines of healthy people, but it can quickly take over and cause a severe infection if the good bacteria in the gut are disabled. C. sordelli is another pathogenic Clostridium bacteria which has been known to cause infections in pregnant and pediatric patients.
The risk of infection with Clostridium bacteria can be reduced by observing basic hygiene. Washing hands after using the restroom is a good idea, as is scrubbing foods and observing safe canning practices when making preserved food. It is also advisable to follow medical recommendations carefully when receiving treatment for a Clostridium infection, to ensure that the bacteria are removed from the system and that the patient is supported as he or she recovers.
Written by S.E. Smith
