Clostridia are relatively large, gram-positive, rod-shaped bacteria that can undergo only anaerobic metabolism. ... Although there are non-pathogenic Clostridia, this genus produces some of the most potent biological toxins.

Is Clostridium pathogenic or nonpathogenic?

Nonpathogenic strains of Clostridium may help in the treatment of diseases such as cancer.

Is Clostridium pathogenic?

Clostridium perfringens, a rapid-growing pathogen known to secrete an arsenal of >20 virulent toxins, has been associated with intestinal diseases in both animals and humans throughout the past century.