Sulfate-Reducing Bacteria and Archaea

The abundance of sulfate-reducing bacteria and archaea (SRBA) is impressive and new isolates are being reported continuously.  A few decades ago, only two genera of dissimilatory sulfate reducers had been identified and as of 2018, 92 genera containing more than 420 species of SRB and several species of archaea have been isolated. This book addresses the historical background of SRBA research and reviews the current status of research examining the growth of these anaerobic microorganisms. Additionally, this book covers metabolic and genomic diversity, enzymatic processes, response to stress, biocorrosion of ferrous metals, biogeochemical processes and interactions with other microorganisms in the anaerobic biosphere. It highlights the unique cellular and molecular features of these microorganisms, discusses the production and consumption of gases and reviews genomic content influencing their metabolic capabilities. Examples are provided of detoxification reactions to alleviate pollution situations, growth in in hostile environments including low nutrient availability, and the effects of sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) on human and animal hosts.