Oxidation of Inorganic Sulfur Compounds by Thiobacilli

Thiobacilli oxidize inorganic sulfur compounds to sulfuric acid and obtain energy for growth from the oxidation. Various species of thiobacilli have different oxidative capabilities, but most can oxidize sulfide, sulfur and thiosulfate. The mechanism of inorganic sulfur oxidation by thiobacilli has been studied for a number of years. It is becoming increasing clear that sulfur and sulfite oxidation are the key reactions in the oxidation of sulfide, elemental sulfur, thiosulfate and polythionates.