Some properties of the thermophilic bacteriophage D6

Abstract

Temperature is one of the most important factors affecting the growth and activities of any organism, and those organisms which can exist and reproduce in high temperature environments are of considerable importance. Although a few examples of thermophilic organisms occur among the more specialised taxonomic groups – fungi, nematodes, insects and molluscs, - thermophily is most common among unicellular organisms. Different definitions are used for thermophily in bacteria, fungi and animals. A maximum growth rate at temperatures above 45°c is mainly characteristic of prokaryotic organisms. Only a few species of eukaryotic protists or animals can tolerate temperatures above 45°c.