This is a big group (genus) of gram-positive (see GRAM’S STAIN) rod-like BACTERIA. Found widely in the air and soil – commonly as spores
– they feed on dead organic matter. As well as infecting and spoiling food, some are pathogenic to humans, causing, for example, ANTHRAX, conjunctivitis (see EYE, DISORDERS OF) and DYSENTERY. They are also the source of some antibiotics (See under MICROBIOLOGY.)
n. (pl. bacilli) any rod-shaped bacterium. See also Bacillus; Lactobacillus; Streptobacillus.
n. a large genus of Gram-positive spore-bearing rodlike bacteria. They are widely distributed in soil and air (usually as spores). Most feed on dead organic material and are responsible for food spoilage. The species B. anthracis, which is nonmotile, causes *anthrax, a disease of farm animals transmissible to humans. B. polymyxa, commonly found in soil, is the source of the polymyxin group of antibiotics. B. subtilis may cause conjunctivitis in humans; it is also a source of the antibiotic *bacitracin zinc.
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