The genus Heliobacter refers to a group of Gram-positive, obligate anaerobic bacteria that utilize photosynthesis to produce energy. Some synonyms commonly used to refer to the Heliobacter genus include Heliobacillus, Halobacterium, and Heliophilum. These organisms are characterized by their unique morphology, with elongated, rod-shaped cells and a yellow-green pigment that allows them to absorb light for photosynthesis. Heliobacter species are often found in anaerobic sediments of freshwater lakes, where they play a critical role in the ecology of these ecosystems. Understanding the biology and taxonomy of Heliobacter can aid in the development of strategies to sustainably manage these important microbial communities.