ANTHRAX By: Robert Wheeler

Scientific Name Bacillus Anthracis

Classification There are around 34 different species inside the Genus Anthrax. Rod shaped bacterium

Metabolism Can be grown under aerobic, or anaerobic conditions.

Habitat Anthrax has the ability to live dormant on plants and in soil for decades at a time. It has been decided the origin of Anthrax was Africa. This is due to the fact that there are two strains of Anthrax, A and B. They can both be found in Africa but Anthrax B is so rare it only appears in 11% of reported cases.

Adaptations Can form endospores

Gram Anthrax is a spore forming, gram positive bacillus.

Endo or Exo? Bacillus Anthracis is a 3 protein exotoxin Anthrax toxin allows the bacteria to evade the immune system, develop and flourish, then ultimately kill the host animal

Function/ Impact on Environment It is usually a disease of animals such as cattle, sheep, goats, and horses. Pigs, Dogs, and Cats are more resistant. Birds are naturally resistant to anthrax in most cases. Buzzards and vultures are naturally resistant to anthrax but may carry the spores on their talons and beaks.

3 Wow Facts The fifth plague, described in the book of Genesis, may be among the earliest descriptions of anthrax. Can be inhaled, obtained through dealing with sick animals, or eating meat products with it

http://bioweb. uwlax. edu/bio203/s2008/cottor_mick/index_files/Page689 http://bioweb.uwlax.edu/bio203/s2008/cottor_mick/index_files/Page689.htm http://www.defencejournal.com/dec98/anthrax.htm