Cytophaga

/saɪˈtɒfəɡə/ noun

Definition

A genus of bacteria known for breaking down and consuming cellular material, particularly plant matter and other organisms.

Etymology

From Greek 'kytos' (cell) + 'phagos' (eating). Cytophaga is the name of an actual bacterial genus discovered in early microbiology and named for its cell-consuming properties.

Kelly Says

Cytophaga bacteria are invisible recyclers in soil and water—they specialize in breaking down dead cells and plant material, playing a crucial role in nutrient cycling that makes life on Earth possible.

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