Check your subscription status, update your details and more. Bacteria that are visible without a microscope are generally found in mangroves and fish, but an analysis of different species from around the world suggests they also reside in the human gut There’s evidence of _Epulopiscium_ species, one of the largest known types of bacteria, in human faecal samples Our gut microbiome is home to trillions of microbes, but they may not all be microscopic. Giant bacteria, which can reach a centimetre in length, are generally found in niche environments, such as mangroves and fish guts.
But now, microbiologists have detected signs of DNA from _Epulopiscium_, one of the largest known types of bacteria, in human gut microbiomes from around the world. Bacteria are usually around 2 micrometres long, while giant ones are generally defined as being larger than 10 micrometres. But species belonging to the _Epulopiscium_ genus can reach up to 600 micrometres – more than half a centimetre – in length.
Receive a weekly dose of discovery in your inbox. We'll also keep you up to date with _New Scientist_ events and special offers. #### Life ### Mirror life: Scientists clash over threat of lab-engineered bacteria News #### Life ### ‘Zombie’ cells created by transplanting genomes into dead bacteria News #### Health ### Slashing sugar intake before antibiotics may save your microbiome News #### Health ### Can prebiotics, probiotics or postbiotics help your ageing microbiome? Comment Brain training shows promise for short-term depression relief### A revolutionary way of targeting tumours could beat even the worst cancers### Dinosaur named new species a century after fossil found on Isle of Wight### The Monte Verde controversy is back: who first lived in the Americas?### Dogs are susceptible to the bouba-kiki effect### We’re finally learning what happens to gifted children in adulthood### Do AIs already process information in a way that gives rise to consciousness?### Can we harness the brain’s deep-cleaning system to prevent Alzheimer’s?### Cells from your mother could stay in your brain your whole life### Compressing bones releases molecules that ease traumatic brain injuries We and our partners use cookies and other technologies to collect user data
Extract — continue reading at the source.
