Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans

Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans is a chemolithoautotrophic (uses inorganic chemicals for energy and makes its own organic molecules from carbon dioxide), non-spore forming, Gram-negative organism that resides in extremely acidic environments. It is relatively short in size, measuring 0.4 μ by 0.8 μ, and can appear as single cells or in pairs. The bacterium gained attention for its unique ability to oxidize ferrous iron for energy and capacity to thrive in nutrient poor environments abundant in heavy metals, conditions that are typically aversive to most other microorganisms.