What do we call bacteria that can tolerate the presence of oxygen but do not require it for growth?

Bacteria that can tolerate the presence of oxygen but do not require it for growth are classified as aerotolerant. Aerotolerant bacteria possess the ability to survive and grow in oxygenated environments, but unlike facultative anaerobes, they do not utilize oxygen for metabolic processes. Instead, they rely on fermentation or anaerobic respiration to generate energy.

This characteristic allows them to thrive in varied environments where oxygen levels may fluctuate. Understanding this classification is crucial for recognizing how different bacteria adapt to their surroundings and the metabolic pathways they employ. This knowledge can also inform practices in microbiology and diagnostics, as certain bacteria may proliferate in specific oxygen conditions, impacting infection control and treatment strategies.