Neutrophile

Definition

A neutrophile is a microorganism that thrives in environments with a near-neutral pH, typically between 6.5 and 7.5. These organisms are essential for understanding how pH affects microbial growth.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Neutrophiles grow optimally at pH levels close to neutral (pH 7).
2. Most human pathogens are considered neutrophiles because the human body's internal environment has a near-neutral pH.
3. Enzymatic activity in neutrophiles is optimized at neutral pH, affecting their metabolic processes.
4. Neutrophiles can adjust their internal pH to some extent to cope with minor fluctuations in external pH.
5. Examples of neutrophilic bacteria include Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus.

Review Questions

Related terms

Acidophile: A microorganism that thrives in acidic environments, typically below a pH of 6.

Alkaliphile: A microorganism that grows best in alkaline conditions, usually above a pH of 8.

pH Homeostasis:

The ability of an organism to maintain stable internal pH levels despite external changes.