KATHERINE'S NOTES
Actinomycetes
Actinomycetes are a higher form of bacteria, similar to fungi, and second in number to bacteria. They don't respond well to acidic conditions (below pH 5) or high moisture conditions, but operate best at medium temperature areas of the compost. Actinomycetes take over during the final stages of decomposition, often producing antibiotics that inhibit bacterial growth. They are likely to work on tough organic material and give compost its pleasant, earthy smell. They are especially important in the formation of humus. They liberate carbon (C), nitrate nitrogen (NO3) and ammonium nitrate (NH4), making nutrients available to plants.
Soil’s "earthy" smell is caused by actinomycetes. Actinomycetes are a form of fungi-like bacteria that form long filaments resembling spider webs stretching through the humus.
Actinomycetes are the primary decomposers of tough plant tissues like bark, paper and stems. They are especially effective at softening up tough materials, such as cellulose, chitin, and lignin.
Any of a group of generally low-oxygen–utilizing bacteria identified by a branching growth pattern that results in large threadlike structures.
The filaments may break apart to form rods or spheroidal shapes. Some actinomycetes can form spores. Many species occur in soil and are harmless to animals and higher plants; others are important disease-causing agents. For diagnostic purposes in human infections, the presence of sulfur granules is used.
· Aerobic. Generally low-oxygen-utilizing.
· cell wall? internal structures? flagella present? branching growth pattern that results in large threadlike structures. The filaments may break apart to form rods or spheroidal shapes. Some actinomycetes can form spores. Some can form spores.
· Occur in soil.
· Nutritional Requirments?
· Reproduction.
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