Psychrophilic Microorganism

Psychrophilic Microorganism

 

any one of several bacteria, yeasts, and microscopic fungi and algae that are capable of growing at low temperatures (— 6° to 5°C). At higher temperatures the organisms multiply more rapidly. Unlike mesophilic microbes, they do not grow at all at temperatures of 27°-37°C. Psychrophilic microorganisms live in arctic and antarctic waters, and on the snow and glaciers of mountains. Some produce orange or red pigments, which often color the surface of snow red (red snow). When the microorganisms develop on meat, fruits, and other food products under refrigeration, they cause spoilage.