Deinococcus radiodurans

Environment: Radioactive waste sites or extreme environments (e.g., areas with high radiation levels).

Bacterium: Deinococcus radiodurans
Scientific Name: Deinococcus radiodurans
Classification:
Domain: Bacteria
Phylum: Deinococcus-Thermus
Class: Deinococci
Order: Deinococcales
Family: Deinococcaceae
Genus: Deinococcus
Species: radiodurans

Morphology: Deinococcus radiodurans is a spherical, Gram-positive bacterium that forms tetrads (groups of four cells).
Habitat: It is found in extreme environments, such as radioactive waste sites, hot springs, and arid deserts.
Unique Features: It is known for its extreme resistance to radiation, desiccation, and oxidative stress due to its efficient DNA repair mechanisms
Links:
NCBI Taxonomy - Deinococcus radiodurans
MicrobeWiki - Deinococcus radiodurans

Deinococcus radiodurans can survive in radioactive environments and has been engineered to clean up toxic waste, including heavy metals and radioactive materials. Its ability to repair DNA damage makes it a model organism for studying radiation resistance and DNA repair processes.
Links:
Bioremediation Potential of Deinococcus radiodurans
DNA Repair Mechanisms in Deinococcus radiodurans

Engineered strains of Deinococcus radiodurans are used to detoxify radioactive waste and heavy metals. Its enzymes are used in industrial processes, and its radiation resistance is studied for applications in space exploration
Links:
Biotechnological Applications of Deinococcus radiodurans
Space Exploration and Radiation Resistance

Threats: While Deinococcus radiodurans is highly resistant, its natural habitats (e.g., radioactive sites) are often threatened by human activities.
Ethical Considerations: The use of genetically engineered strains for bioremediation raises questions about environmental release and unintended consequences
Link:
Ethical Considerations in Bioremediation