What is the term for bacteria that cannot grow in the presence of oxygen?

The term for bacteria that cannot grow in the presence of oxygen is anaerobic. Anaerobic bacteria thrive in environments devoid of oxygen and may even be harmed or killed by it. These organisms utilize anaerobic processes for their metabolism, which can include fermentation or anaerobic respiration, allowing them to obtain energy without the need for oxygen.

In contrast, aerobic bacteria require oxygen for their growth and survival, as they utilize oxygen in their metabolic processes. Facultative bacteria are versatile; they can grow in both the presence and absence of oxygen, adjusting their metabolism accordingly. Microaerophilic bacteria prefer environments with reduced oxygen levels but still require some oxygen to grow. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for environmental health and safety, particularly in managing and controlling microbial growth in various systems.