The Actinobacteria are a group of Gram-positive bacteria. Most are found in the soil, and they include some of the most common soil life, playing important roles in decomposition and humus formation. Some form branching filaments, which somewhat resemble the mycelia of the unrelated fungi, among which they were originally classified as the Actinomycetes. All are aerobic. A few forms are pathogens, such as Mycobacterium. Some are thermophilic.
Actinobacteria are often found in soil and water. They are able to change their shape to adapt to their environment by extending out branches, or filaments. In fact, this group of bacteria got its name because of how their branches extend outward: Actino means radiate.' When trees grow roots, they are reaching out to find nutrients and water. These filaments serve the same purpose, allowing Actinobacteria to reach across dry gaps in the soil to access nutrients and water. And as a bonus, these branches increase the bacteria's surface area, allowing more nutrients to be absorbed.
Actinobacteria are often found in soil and water. They are able to change their shape to adapt to their environment by extending out branches, or filaments. In fact, this group of bacteria got its name because of how their branches extend outward: Actino means radiate.' When trees grow roots, they are reaching out to find nutrients and water. These filaments serve the same purpose, allowing Actinobacteria to reach across dry gaps in the soil to access nutrients and water. And as a bonus, these branches increase the bacteria's surface area, allowing more nutrients to be absorbed.
