Reduces the stability of FtsZ polymers in the presence of ATP. Required for cell division under low-oxygen conditions. Hydrolyzes ATP but not GTP. Interacts with FtsZ. Localizes to the constricting Z-ring during late stages of the cell division process. Mutants have no growth defect in aerobic conditions. However, inactivation leads to a stress-dependent elongated phenotype (in anaerobiosis or at temperatures over 37 degrees Celsius). ZapE abundance has to be tightly regulated to allow cell division. Loss or overexpression of ZapE alters Z-ring stability and leads to bacterial filamentation (PubMed:24595368). Belongs to the AFG1 ATPase family. ZapE subfamily.