Comparative genome analyses reveal insights into the marine adaptation of a novel bacterium Pontimicrobium maritimus sp. nov., isolated from seawater
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: A novel gliding, Gram-stain-negative, rod-shaped, strictly aerobic bacterium, designated SW4 T , was isolated from seawater in the West Sea, Korea. Strain SW4 T grew optimally at 30 °C, pH 7.5, and NaCl 2% on MA. Phylogenetic analysis based on the 16S rRNA gene placed strain SW4 T in the genus Pontimicrobium within the family Flavobacteriaceae , with its closest relative being Pontimicrobium aquaticum KCTC 72003 T (97.0% similarity). However, genome analysis revealed significant divergence, with average nucleotide identity (ANI) of 81.6% and digital DNA-DNA hybridization (dDDH) value of 24.4%, supporting its designation as a new species. The genome consists of a 3.44 Mb circular chromosome and a plasmid, with a G + C content of 32%. In addition to the physiological distinct characteristics, comparative genomic analysis identified unique genes associated with heavy metal transport, nitrogen and sulfur cycling, oxidative and osmotic stress responses, and numerous carbohydrate-active enzymes that are responsible for polysaccharide degradation and utilization, highlighting its marine adaptation. These findings differentiate strain SW4 T from its closest and only existing species of P. aquaticum at both genomic and phenotypical levels. Based on phenotypic and phylogenetic evidence, we propose the novel species Pontimicrobium maritimus . sp. nov. with the type strain SW4 T (= KCTC 42599 T = InaCC B 1659 T ).
Source: Scientific Reports
Language: English
Subfield: Molecular Biology
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,690
Award: G4836957142
OpenAlex ID: W4412044643