This organism is a small, motile, and microaerophilic Gram-negative bacillus with a comma, S, or gull-wing shape. Growth is enhanced by incubation at elevated temperature and modified atmosphere (decreased oxygen and increased carbon dioxide). Campylobacter species do not produce acids from sugars, a trait that separates them from Vibrio species. Because of their selection using 42 C incubation, the number and variety of tests used for identification is limited.
Its reservoir is the reproductive organs, intestinal tract, and oral cavities in animals, but it is not common in humans. It is responsible for some serious swine infections but is rarely associated with human disease.