key term - Minimum permissive oxygen concentration
Definition
Minimum permissive oxygen concentration is the lowest concentration of oxygen that allows for the survival and growth of a specific microorganism. It varies among different microbial species based on their oxygen requirements.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
Obligate aerobes require a minimum permissive oxygen concentration close to atmospheric levels (around 20%).
Facultative anaerobes can grow at varying oxygen concentrations but have a defined minimum permissive level.
Microaerophiles need lower-than-atmospheric oxygen levels, often around 2-10%.
Anaerobic bacteria have very low or no minimum permissive oxygen concentration, as they thrive in environments devoid of oxygen.
Determining the minimum permissive oxygen concentration is crucial for culturing microorganisms under optimal conditions.
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Related terms
Obligate Aerobe: A microorganism that requires atmospheric levels of oxygen for growth.
Facultative Anaerobe: A microorganism that can grow with or without oxygen but prefers an aerobic environment.
Microaerophile: A microorganism that requires lower-than-atmospheric levels of oxygen for growth.
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