heliobacteria

Heliobacteria are a group of bacteria that perform photosynthesis, but unlike plants, they don't produce oxygen as a byproduct. Instead, they use light energy to convert inorganic compounds into food, primarily in low-oxygen environments like soil or sediments. They contain unique pigments called bacteriochlorophylls, which allow them to capture light efficiently under different conditions. Heliobacteria play a role in nutrient cycling and can influence the ecosystem by contributing to the breakdown of organic material. Overall, they are specialized microorganisms that help sustain certain environments through their unique method of photosynthesis.