Haloferax volcanii

Definition

Haloferax volcanii is an extremophilic archaeon that thrives in highly saline environments. It is often used as a model organism for studying the biology of Archaea.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Haloferax volcanii belongs to the family Halobacteriaceae.
2. It can survive in environments with salt concentrations up to 4 M NaCl.
3. Its genome consists of both circular and linear chromosomes, along with plasmids.
4. Haloferax volcanii exhibits unique lipid compositions, including ether-linked lipids typical of Archaea.
5. It has been instrumental in studies on gene regulation, DNA replication, and protein folding under extreme conditions.

Review Questions

• What family does Haloferax volcanii belong to?
• In what type of environment does Haloferax volcanii thrive?
• What is unique about the genome structure of Haloferax volcanii?

Related terms

Archaea:

A domain of single-celled microorganisms that are distinct from bacteria and eukaryotes.

Halobacteriaceae: A family within the domain Archaea known for its members' ability to live in high-salt environments.

Extremophile: An organism that thrives in extreme environmental conditions such as high salinity, temperature, or acidity.