What type of bacteria needs no oxygen to survive?

Anaerobic bacteria are defined by their ability to thrive in environments devoid of oxygen. These microorganisms do not require oxygen for their survival and, in some cases, can be harmed or even killed by it. Anaerobes are capable of utilizing fermentation or anaerobic respiration as their metabolic processes, allowing them to generate energy without the presence of oxygen.

Understanding the characteristics of anaerobic bacteria is crucial, especially in laboratory settings and when dealing with various animal models. Their presence is significant in some diseases and infections, and their unique metabolic pathways can influence the overall health and outcomes of laboratory animals.

Other categories of bacteria, such as aerobic, microaerophilic, and facultative anaerobic bacteria, have different oxygen requirements. Aerobic bacteria need oxygen to survive, microaerophilic bacteria require lower levels of oxygen, and facultative anaerobes can thrive in both the presence and absence of oxygen, switching between aerobic and anaerobic metabolic processes based on environmental conditions. This distinction highlights why anaerobic bacteria are unique, as they are specifically adapted to oxygen-free environments.