While many of our tissues in the human body are perfused with oxygenated blood, there are regions where anaerobic conditions exist. Naturally, much of animals intestinal tracts and gut microbiomes are made of obligate anaerobes. Pathologically, necrotic tissue and other circulation issues can create transient anaerobic conditions.

Obligate anaerobes cannot grow in the presence of oxygen, which is why they grow densest at the bottom of the Thioglycolate tube. In nature, they can be found in places like deep in the ocean or in anaerobic environments inside of our bodies. 

Obligate Anaerobes

https://openstax.org/details/books/microbiology/

Microbiology covers the scope and sequence requirements for a single-semester microbiology course for non-majors. The book presents the core concepts of microbiology with a focus on applications for careers in allied health. The pedagogical features of the text make the material interesting and accessible while maintaining the career-application focus and scientific rigor inherent in the subject matter. Microbiology’s art program enhances students’ understanding of concepts through clear and effective illustrations, diagrams, and photographs.

Microbiology is produced through a collaborative publishing agreement between OpenStax and the American Society for Microbiology Press. The book aligns with the curriculum guidelines of the American Society for Microbiology.

OpenStax Microbiology Textbook

Anaerobic Conditions in Humans

All organisms that come in contact with ROS must contain at least one of three essential enzymes to detoxify the reduced oxygen to avoid damage; obligate anaerobes do not contain any of these enzymes:
- Peroxidases
- Superoxide dismutase (SOD)
- Catalase 

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