Ultrastructure and cell division of a facultatively parasitic strain of Bdellovibrio bacteriovorus.

Some aspects of cell development and division of Bdellovibrio bacteriovorus strain UKi2 were examined by use of electron microscopic techniques. Under saprophytic and parasitic conditions of growth, the comma-shaped cells enlarge, elongate, and form helical filaments. The mechanism of division appears to consist of an asymmetrical constriction of the filamentous cell by the cytoplasmic membrane, accompanied by a breakdown of the outer layers of the cell wall in the division region. During regeneration of the cell wall, the flagellum and flagellar sheath are formed. The development of the flagellum of the daughter cell is initiated prior to separation of the newly formed cells from the filament. Observations of B. bacteriovorus UKi2 grown under saprophytic and parasitic conditions indicate that development and ultrastructure are similar in both modes of growth.