Bdellovibrio

/bɛˌdɛloʊˈvɪbriːoʊ/ noun

Definition

A genus of tiny, comma-shaped bacteria that are predators of other bacteria, drilling into their prey to consume them from inside.

Etymology

From Greek 'bdella' (leech) + Latin 'vibrio' (a curved bacterium), named for its leech-like predatory behavior on other bacteria.

Kelly Says

Bdellovibrio bacteria are nature's assassins—they can drill through bacterial cell walls like microscopic drill presses and consume the entire contents, making them potential weapons against dangerous bacteria like E. coli.

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