Which of the following bacteria is most associated with swine erysipelas?

Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae is the bacterium most commonly linked to swine erysipelas, a disease that primarily affects pigs. This organism is a Gram-positive rod that can cause various clinical manifestations in pigs, including acute septicemia, polyarthritis, and skin lesions.

Transmission typically occurs through direct contact with infected carriers or contaminated environments, and it can lead to significant economic losses in the swine industry due to decreased productivity and increased mortality rates. The understanding of the pathogenicity of Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae is crucial for implementing effective prevention and control measures, such as vaccination protocols, to manage outbreaks of swine erysipelas. This highlights the importance of recognizing this specific bacterium in relation to swine health.