Examples of the diverse growth habits of actinomycetes. Some of the natural product molecules they make are pigmented, accounting for the rainbow of different colours exhibited.
About Actinomycetes
Actinomycetes are one of the largest and most diverse groups of bacteria. They are found in practically every environmental niche on the planet, notably in a wide range of terrestrial and aquatic habitats.
One reason for their success is their ability to produce a vast range of "natural product" molecules, which help them adapt to their environment and inhibit their competitors. Many well-known drugs are made by actinomycetes, especially antibiotics, as exemplified by kanamycin and streptomycin.
In natural habitats actinomycetes are involved in the turnover of organic matter and recalcitrant molecules. The actinomycetes are the major component of the phylum Actinobacteria.
