sulfur bacteria

Sulfur bacteria are a group of microorganisms that obtain energy by using sulfur compounds, such as hydrogen sulfide, instead of oxygen. They play important roles in natural processes like the sulfur cycle, helping break down organic matter in environments like hot springs, sulfate-rich sediments, and hydrothermal vents. Some sulfur bacteria produce distinctive smells of rotten eggs because of hydrogen sulfide. They can be photosynthetic or non-photosynthetic and are essential for maintaining ecological balance by recycling sulfur and other nutrients in various ecosystems.