A genus of strictly aerobic, Gram-positive bacteria (family Corynebacteriaceae) whose cells undergo a change from a coccoid form to a rod shape following transfer to fresh complex growth medium. Although primarily found in soil, species identified as belonging to this genus have been found in the advancing front of lesions of dental caries. The type species is Arthrobacter globiformis.
Origin
[G. arthron, joint, + baktron, staff or rod]