Esther Angert, Cornell University
Associate Professor
Ithaca, New York
era23@cornell.edu
Office:
(607) 254-4778
Expert In
Bio/Research
Epulopiscium spp. are some of the largest known bacteria. Individuals can reach lengths in excess of 0.6 mm; large enough to be seen with the unaided eye. Another unusual feature of this group of bacteria is the manner in which they reproduce. While most bacteria simply divide into two equivalent...
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Bio/Research
Epulopiscium spp. are some of the largest known bacteria. Individuals can reach lengths in excess of 0.6 mm; large enough to be seen with the unaided eye. Another unusual feature of this group of bacteria is the manner in which they reproduce. While most bacteria simply divide into two equivalent daughter cells, an Epulopiscium cell can produce multiple offspring internally. Research in the Angert Lab focuses on characterizing cellular modifications that support large cell size in a bacterium. We are also working toward identifying the molecular mechanisms involved in internal offspring formation and development. We are interested in determining how reproductive strategy impacts the symbiotic relationship of intestinal bacteria and their vertebrate host. Epulopiscium spp. are intestinal symbionts of certain species of tropical marine fish of the surgeonfish family. A deeper understanding of the role of these intestinal symbionts will provide a deeper appreciation for the nutritional ecology of key herbivores on the endangered and fragile coral reefs found in low-nutrient topical seas.
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