Dependence of marine bdellovibrios on potassium, calcium, and magnesium ions.
Marine bdellovibrios show a specific requirement for K, Ca, and Mg. Potassium is essential for high velocity and seems to be necessary for attachment of the free bdellovibrios. Calcium and magnesium are necessary for attachment and penetration. Magnesium also plays a role in maintaining the integrity of the bdelloplast. The adaptation of these bdellovibrios to the marine environment is manifested by their stringent cation requirements.
Marbach
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The Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical School, Department of Microbiological Chemistry, Jerusalem, Israel.
Shilo
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