Bilophococcus magnetotacticus gen. nov. sp. nov., a motile, magnetic coccus.

The morphological, biochemical, and magnetotactic properties of a single magnetic bacterium are reported. Although this bacterium has not been cultured axenically, the unusual magnetotactic behavior has allowed the collection of cell material of sufficient quantity and purity to allow characterization. The results indicate that this organism represents a new genus of colorless, sulfur-depositing bacteria, albeit of uncertain affiliation. The name proposed for this new genus/species, Bilophococcus magnetotacticus, reflects the most distinctive traits of morphology, motility, and magnetic mineral formation. Classification is based on type descriptive material.