Mesophile
Mesophile
Mesophile (/mɛsəfaɪl/; from Greek mesos "middle", and philē "love") is a type of microorganism that grows best in moderate temperature, neither too hot nor too cold, typically between 20 and 45 degrees Celsius (68 and 113 degrees Fahrenheit).
Etymology
The term "mesophile" originates from the Greek words mesos, meaning middle, and philē, meaning love. This refers to the organism's preference for moderate temperatures.
Characteristics
Mesophiles are often found in soil and water environments, as well as in and on the human body. They include many species of bacteria, fungi, and protozoa. Some mesophiles, such as Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, are important in food spoilage and can cause disease. Others, like Lactobacillus species, are used in food production, such as cheese and yogurt.
Classification
Mesophiles are classified into three main groups based on their optimal growth temperature:
- Psychrotrophs: These organisms can survive at low temperatures but grow best at moderate temperatures.
- Thermophiles: These organisms grow best at high temperatures.
- Hyperthermophiles: These organisms grow best at extremely high temperatures.
Related Terms
- Psychrophile: An organism that prefers extremely cold temperatures.
- Thermophile: An organism that prefers extremely hot temperatures.
- Hyperthermophile: An organism that prefers extremely high temperatures.
- Extremophile: An organism that lives in conditions of extreme temperature, acidity, alkalinity, or chemical concentration.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Mesophile
- Wikipedia's article - Mesophile
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