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cytophaga

noun
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cy·​toph·​a·​ga | \ sīˈtäfəgə \

Definition of cytophaga

1 capitalized : a genus of long flexuous pointed bacteria (order Myxobacterales) showing creeping motility, forming neither fruiting bodies nor microcysts, and being saprophytes of soil and water that vigorously hydrolyze cellulose and aid in the breakdown of plant remains
2 plural -s : any bacterium of the genus Cytophaga

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History and Etymology for cytophaga

New Latin, from cyt- + -phaga

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Cite this Entry

“Cytophaga.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cytophaga. Accessed 28 Oct. 2020.

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