Halomonas cibimaris sp. nov., isolated from jeotgal, a traditional Korean fermented seafood

Halomonas citrativorans sp. nov., Halomonas casei sp. nov. and Halomonas colorata sp. nov., isolated from French cheese rinds

Eight Gram-stain-negative bacterial strains were isolated from cheese rinds sampled in France. On the basis of 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis, all isolates were assigned to the genus Halomonas. Phylogenetic investigations, including 16S rRNA gene studies, multilocus sequence analysis, reconstruction of a pan-genome phylogenetic tree with the concatenated core-genome content and average nucleotide identity (ANI) calculations, revealed that they constituted three novel and well-supported clusters. The closest relative species, determined using the whole-genome sequences of the strains, were Halomonas zhanjiangensis for two groups of cheese strains, sharing 82.4 and 93.1 % ANI, and another cluster sharing 92.2 % ANI with the Halomonas profundi type strain. The strains isolated herein differed from the previously described species by ANI values <95 % and several biochemical, enzymatic and colony characteristics. The results of phenotypic, phylogenetic and chemotaxonomic analyses indicated that the isolates belonged to three novel Halomonas species, for which the names Halomonas citrativorans sp. nov., Halomonas casei sp. nov. and Halomonas colorata sp. nov. are proposed, with isolates FME63T (=DSM 113315T=CIRM-BIA2430T=CIP 111880T=LMG 32013T), FME64T (=DSM 113316T=CIRM-BIA2431T=CIP 111877T=LMG 32015T) and FME66T (=DSM 113318T=CIRM-BIA2433T=CIP 111876T=LMG 32014T) as type strains, respectively.

Genomic attributes and characterization of novel exopolysaccharide-producing bacterium Halomonas piscis sp. nov. isolated from jeotgal

Halophilic bacterial strains, designated SG2L-4T, SB1M4, and SB2L-5, were isolated from jeotgal, a traditional Korean fermented food. Cells are Gram-stain-negative, aerobic, non-motile, rod-shaped, catalase-positive, and oxidase-negative. Phylogenetic analysis based on the 16S rRNA gene sequence revealed that strain SG2L-4T is closely related to Halomonas garicola KACC 18117T with a similarity of 96.2%. The complete genome sequence of strain SG2L-4T was 3,227,066 bp in size, with a genomic G + C content of 63.3 mol%. The average nucleotide identity and digital DNA-DNA hybridization values between strain SG2L-4T and H. garicola KACC 18117T were 90.5 and 40.7%, respectively. The optimal growth conditions for strain SG2L-4T were temperatures between 30 and 37°C, a pH value of 7, and the presence of 10% (w/v) NaCl. The polar lipids identified included diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol, an unknown phospholipid, an unknown glycolipid, and an unknown polar lipid. The major cellular fatty acids were C16:0, summed features 8 (C18:1ω6c and/or C18:1ω7c), C19:0 cyclo ω8c, and summed features 3 (C16:1ω6c and/or C16:1ω7c). The predominant respiratory quinone was ubiquinone with nine isoprene units (Q-9). Based on the phenotypic, genotypic, and chemotaxonomic results, strain SG2L-4T represents a novel species within the genus Halomonas, for which the name Halomonas piscis sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is SG2L-4T (=KCTC 92842T = JCM 35929T). Functional annotation of the genome of strain SG2L-4T confirmed the presence of exopolysaccharide synthesis protein (ExoD) and capsular polysaccharide-related genes. Strain SG2L-4T also exhibited positive results in Molisch's test, indicating the presence of extracellular carbohydrates and exopolysaccharides (EPS) production. These findings provide valuable insights into the EPS-producing capabilities of H. piscis sp. nov. isolated from jeotgal, contributing to understanding its potential roles in food and biotechnological applications.

Halomonas gemina sp. nov. and Halomonas llamarensis sp. nov., two siderophore-producing organisms isolated from high-altitude salars of the Atacama Desert

Introduction

This study aimed to identify and characterize novel siderophore-producing organisms capable of secreting high quantities of the iron-binding compounds. In the course of this, two not yet reported halophilic strains designated ATCHA^T and ATCH28^T were isolated from hypersaline, alkaline surface waters of Salar de Llamará and Laguna Lejía, respectively. The alkaline environment limits iron bioavailability, suggesting that native organisms produce abundant siderophores to sequester iron.

Methods

Both strains were characterized by polyphasic approach. Comparative analysis of the 16S rRNA gene sequences revealed their affiliation with the genus Halomonas. ATCHA^T showed close similarity to Halomonas salicampi and Halomonas vilamensis, while ATCH28^T was related closest to Halomonas ventosae and Halomonas salina. The ability of both strains to secrete siderophores was initially assessed using the chromeazurol S (CAS) liquid assay and subsequently further investigated through genomic analysis and NMR. Furthermore, the effect of various media components on the siderophore secretion by strain ATCH28^T was explored.

Results

The CAS assay confirmed the ability of both strains to produce iron-binding compounds. Genomic analysis of strain ATCHA^T revealed the presence of a not yet reported NRPS-dependant gene cluster responsible for the secretion of siderophore. However, as only small amounts of siderophore were secreted, further investigations did not lie within the scope of this study. Via NMR and genomic analysis, strain ATCH28^T has been determined to produce desferrioxamine E (DFOE). Although this siderophore is common in various terrestrial microorganisms, it has not yet been reported to occur within Halomonas, making strain ATCH28^T the first member of the genus to produce a non-amphiphilic siderophore. By means of media optimization, the produced quantity of DFOE could be increased to more than 1000 µM.

Discussion

Phenotypic and genotypic characteristics clearly differentiated both strains from other members of the genus Halomonas. Average nucleotide identity (ANI) values and DNA-DNA relatedness indicated that the strains represented two novel species. Therefore, both species should be added as new representatives of the genus Halomonas, for which the designations Halomonas llamarensis sp. nov. (type strain ATCHA^T = DSM 114476 = LMG 32709) and Halomonas gemina sp. nov. (type strain ATCH28^T = DSM 114418 = LMG 32708) are proposed.

Genome analysis and phenotypic characterization of Halomonas hibernica isolated from a traditional food process with novel quorum quenching and catalase activities

Traditional food processes can utilize bacteria to promote positive organoleptic qualities and increase shelf life. Wiltshire curing has a vital bacterial component that has not been fully investigated from a microbial perspective. During the investigation of a Wiltshire brine, a culturable novel bacterium of the genus Halomonas was identified by 16S rRNA gene (MN822133) sequencing and analysis. The isolate was confirmed as representing a novel species (Halomonas hibernica B1.N12) using a housekeeping (HK) gene phylogenetic tree reconstruction with the selected genes 16S rRNA, 23S rRNA, atpA, gyrB, rpoD and secA. The genome of the new isolate was sequenced and annotated and comparative genome analysis was conducted. Functional analysis revealed that the isolate has a unique phenotypic signature including high salt tolerance, a wide temperature growth range and substrate metabolism. Phenotypic and biochemical profiling demonstrated that H. hibernica B1.N12 possesses strong catalase activity which is an important feature for an industrial food processing bacterium, as it can promote an increased product shelf life and improve organoleptic qualities. Moreover, H. hibernica exhibits biocontrol properties based on its quorum quenching capabilities. Our work on this novel isolate advances knowledge on potential mechanistic interplays operating in complex microbial communities that mediate traditional food processes.

Halomonas faecis sp. nov., a halophilic bacterium isolated from human faeces

A novel moderately halophilic, Gram-stain-negative, catalase- and oxidase-positive, strictly aerobic, non-sporulating, non-motile rod, designated strain JSM 104105 ^T, was isolated from human faeces. Strain JSM 104105 ^T was able to grow with 0.5-18% (w/v) NaCl (optimum 4-9%), at pH 6-10.5 (optimum pH 7-8) and at 10-40 °C (optimum 30 °C) in complex media. The major cellular fatty acids were C_18:1ω7c, C_16:0, C_16:1ω7c and/or C_16:1ω6c, C_19:0 cyclo ω8c and C_12:0 3-OH. The polar lipids consisted of diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, an unidentified aminophospholipid, an unidentified glycolipid and three unidentified phospholipids. The predominant respiratory quinone was Q-9 and the genomic DNA G + C content was 64.5 mol%. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences indicated that strain JSM 104105 ^T should be assigned to the genus Halomonas, and was most closely related to Halomonas gudaonensis SL014B-69 ^T (99.0% sequence similarity), followed by Halomonas azerbaijanica TBZ202^T (98.6%) and Halomonas lysinitropha 3(2)^T (97.3%). The whole genomic analysis showed that strain JSM 104105 ^T constituted a different taxon separated from the recognized Halomonas species. Combined data from phenotypic and genotypic studies demonstrated that strain JSM 104105 ^T represents a new species of the genus Halomonas, for which the name Halomonas faecis sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is JSM 104105 ^T (= CCTCC AB 2014160 ^T = CGMCC 1.12945 ^T = KCTC 42146 ^T).

Probiotic Properties of Lactic Acid Bacteria with High Conjugated Linoleic Acid Converting Activity Isolated from Jeot-Gal, High-Salt Fermented Seafood

Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) isomers are potent health-promoting fatty acids. This study evaluated the probiotic properties of 10 strains of high CLA-producing lactic acid bacteria (LAB) isolated from Jeot-gal, a high-salt, fermented seafood. Two isolates, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum JBCC105683 and Lactiplantibacillus pentosus JBCC105676, produced the largest amounts of CLA (748.8 and 726.9 μg/mL, respectively). Five isolates, L. plantarum JBCC105675, L. pentosus JBCC105676, L. pentosus JBCC105674, L. plantarum JBCC105683, and Lactiplantibacillus paraplantarum JBCC105655 synthesized more cis-9, trans-11-CLA than trans-10, cis-12-CLA (approximately 80:20 ratio). All the strains survived severe artificial acidic environments and showed antimicrobial activity and strong adhesion capability to Caco-2 cells as compared to the commercial strain Lactocaseibacillus rhamnosus GG. Among them, Pediococcus acidilactici JBCC105117, L. paraplantarum JBCC105655, and L. plantarum JBCC105683 strongly stimulated the immunological regulatory gene PMK-1 and the host defense antimicrobial peptide gene clec-60 in Caenorhabditis elegans. Moreover, three strains showed a significant induction of tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-12, and IL-10 production in RAW 264.7 macrophages, indicating that they were promising candidates for probiotics with high CLA-converting activity. Our results indicate that the newly isolated CLA-producing LAB might be useful as a functional probiotic with beneficial health effects that modulate the immune system.

Halomonas pellis sp. nov., a moderately halophilic bacterium isolated from wetsalted hides

A Gram-stain-negative, moderately halophilic strain, designated strain L5T, was isolated from wetsalted hides collected from Chengdu, south-west PR China. The cells were motile, facultative aerobic, short rod-shaped and non-endospore-forming. Growth of strain L5T occurred at pH 6–10 (optimum, pH 8), 10–45 °C (optimum, 30 °C) and in the presence of 1–17 % (w/v) NaCl (optimum, 10 %). Results of phylogenetic analyses based on 16S rRNA, gyrB and rpoD gene sequences and its genome revealed that strain L5T belonged to the genus Halomonas . Strain L5T was found to be most closely related to the type strains of Halomonas saliphila , Halomonas lactosivorans , Halomonas kenyensis , Halomonas daqingensis and Halomonas desiderata (98.8, 98.6, 98.3, 97.9 and 97.4 % 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity, respectively). The draft genome was approximately 4.2 Mb in size with a G+C content of 63.5 mol%. The average nucleotide identity (ANI) and digital DNA–DNA hybridization values among strain L5T and the selected Halomonas species were 83.3–88.9 % (ANIm), 71.1–87.3 % (ANIb) and 20.2–34.6 %, which are below the recommended cutoff values. Major fatty acids were C16 : 0, C16 : 1  ω7c, C18 : 1  ω7c and C19 : 0 cyclo ω8c and the predominant ubiquinone was Q-9, with minor ubiquinone Q-8 also present. The phospholipid profile consisted of diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylcholine, four unidentified aminophospholipids and three unidentified phospholipids. Based on the mentioned polyphasic taxonomic evidence, strain L5T represents a novel species within the genus Halomonas , for which Halomonas pellis sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is L5T (=CGMCC 1.17335T=KCTC 72573T).

Halomonas rituensis sp. nov. and Halomonas zhuhanensis sp. nov., isolated from natural salt marsh sediment on the Tibetan Plateau

Two novel Gram-stain-negative, aerobic and non-motile rods bacteria, designated TQ8S^T and ZH2S^T, were isolated from salt marsh sediment collected from the Tibetan Plateau. Strain TQ8S^T was found to grow at 10-40 °C (optimum, 30 °C), pH 6.0-11.0 (optimum, pH 8.0-9.0) and in the presence of 2-12 % (w/v) NaCl (optimum, 6-8 %). Strain ZH2S^T was found to grow at 15-40 °C (optimum, 30 °C), pH 7.0-10.0 (optimum pH 9.0) and in the presence of 2-10 % (w/v) NaCl (optimum, 4-6 %). Phylogenetic analysis based on the 16S rRNA gene sequences showed that strains TQ8S^T and ZH2S^T shared 99.07 % sequence similarity between each other and were affiliated with the genus Halomonas, sharing 97.48 % and 97.41 % of sequence similarity to their closest neighbour Halomonas sulfidaeris Esulfide1^T, respectively. DNA-DNA hybridization analyses showed 61.0 % relatedness between strains TQ8S^T and ZH2S^T. The average nucleotide identity and the average amino acid identity values between the two genomes were 92.33 and 92.84 %, respectively. The values between the two strains and their close phylogenetic relatives were all below 95 %. The major respiratory quinones of strain TQ8S^T were Q-9 and Q-8, while that of ZH2S^T was Q-9. The main fatty acids shared by the two strains were C_18 : 1  ω6c and/or C_18 : 1  ω7c, C_16 : 1  ω6c and/or C_16 : 1  ω7c, C_16 : 0 and C_12 : 0 3-OH. Strain ZH2S^T can be distinguished from TQ8S^T by a higher proportion of C_19 : 0 cyclo ω8c. The G+C content of the genomic DNA of strains TQ8S^T and ZH2S^T were 57.20 and 57.14 mol%, respectively. On the basis of phenotypic distinctiveness and phylogenetic divergence, the two isolates are considered to represent two novel species of the genus Halomonas, for which the names Halomonas rituensis sp. nov (type strain TQ8S^T=KCTC 62530^T=CICC 24572^T) and Halomonas zhuhanensis sp. nov (type strain ZH2S^T=KCTC 62531^T=CICC 24505^T) are proposed.

Subsurface Microbial Ecology at Sediment-Groundwater Interface in Sulfate-Rich Playa; White Sands National Monument, New Mexico

The hypersaline sediment and groundwater of playa lake, Lake Lucero, at the White Sands National Monument in New Mexico were examined for microbial community composition, geochemical gradients, and mineralogy during the dry season along a meter and a half depth profile of the sediment vs. the groundwater interface. Lake Lucero is a highly dynamic environment, strongly characterized by the capillary action of the groundwater, the extreme seasonality of the climate, and the hypersalinity. Sediments are predominantly composed of gypsum with minor quartz, thenardite, halite, quartz, epsomite, celestine, and clays. Geochemical analysis has revealed the predominance of nitrates over ammonium in all of the analyzed samples, indicating oxygenated conditions throughout the sediment column and in groundwater. Conversely, the microbial communities are primarily aerobic, gram-negative, and are largely characterized by their survival adaptations. Halophiles and oligotrophs are ubiquitous for all the samples. The very diverse communities contain methanogens, phototrophs, heterotrophs, saprophytes, ammonia-oxidizers, sulfur-oxidizers, sulfate-reducers, iron-reducers, and nitrifiers. The microbial diversity varied significantly between groundwater and sediment samples as their temperature adaptation inferences that revealed potential psychrophiles inhabiting the groundwater and thermophiles and mesophiles being present in the sediment. The dynamism of this environment manifests in the relatively even character of the sediment hosted microbial communities, where significant taxonomic distinctions were observed. Therefore, sediment and groundwater substrates are considered as separate ecological entities. We hope that the variety of the discussed playa environments and the microorganisms may be considered a useful terrestrial analog providing valuable information to aid future astrobiological explorations.

Phytohalomonas tamaricis gen. nov., sp. nov., an endophytic bacterium isolated from Tamarix ramosissima roots growing in Kumtag desert

A gram-stain-negative, aerobic, non-spore-forming, rod-shaped, non-motile bacterium strain R4HLG17^T was isolated from Tamarix ramosissima roots growing in Kumtag desert. The strain grew at salinities of 0-16% (w/v) NaCl (optimum 5-6%), pH 5-9 (optimum 7) and at 16-45 °C. Based on 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity, strain R4HLG17^T belonged to the family Halomonadaceae and was most closely related to Halomonas lutea DSM 23508^T(95.1%), followed by Halotalea alkalilenta AW-7^T(94.8%), Salinicola acroporae S4-41^T(94.8%), Salinicola halophilus CG4.1^T(94.6%), and Larsenimonas salina M1-18^T(94.4%). Multilocus sequence analysis (MLSA) based on the partial sequences of 16S rRNA, atpA, gyrB, rpoD, and secA genes indicated that the strain R4HLG17^T formed an independent and monophyletic branch related to other genera of Halomonadaceae, supporting its placement as a new genus in this family. The draft genome of strain R4HLG17^T was 3.6 Mb with a total G + C content of 55.1%. The average nucleotide identity to Halomonas lutea DSM 23508^T was 83.5%. Q-9 was detected as the major respiratory quinone and summed feature 8 (C_18:1ω7c/C_18:1ω6c), summed feature 3 (C_16:1ω7c/C_16:1ω6c), and C_16:0 as predominant cellular fatty acids. On the basis of chemotaxonomic, phylogenetic, and phenotypic evidence, strain R4HLG17^T is concluded to represent a novel species of a new genus within Halomonadaceae, for which the name Phytohalomonas tamaricis gen. nov., sp. nov., is proposed. The type strain is R4HLG17^T (=ACCC 19929^T=KCTC 52415^T).

Halomonas nigrificans sp. nov., isolated from cheese

A Gram-stain-negative, rod-shaped Proteobacteria isolate, MBT G8648^T, was obtained from an acid curd cheese called Quargel. The isolate was moderately salt tolerant and motile, with numerous peritrichous flagella. The 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis indicated that the strain belongs to the genus Halomonas, with 98.42 % 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity with Halomonas titanicae BH1^T as nearest related neighbour. Further comparative sequence analysis of secA and gyrB genes, as well as physiological and biochemical tests, revealed that this bacterium formed a taxon well-separated from its nearest neighbours and other established Halomonas species. Thus, the strain represents a new species, for which the name Halomonas nigrificans sp. nov. is proposed, with strain MBT G8648^T (=LMG 29097^T =DSM 105749^T) as type strain.

Toward a Metagenomic Understanding on the Bacterial Composition and Resistome in Hong Kong Banknotes

Currency is possibly one of the main media transmitting pathogens and drug resistance due to its wide circulation in daily life. In this study, we made a comprehensive characterization of the bacterial community present on banknotes collected from different geographical regions of Hong Kong (HK) by performing in vitro characterization of the bacterial presence and resistome profile, as well as metagenomic analysis including microbial diversity, the prevalence of potential pathogens, the dissemination potential of antibiotic-resistance genes (ARGs), among others. When comparing the bacterial community of HK banknotes with other HK environmental samples, including water and marine sediment, we revealed that HK banknotes cover nearly 50% of total genera found in all the environmental samples, implying that banknotes harbor diverse bacteria originated from a variety of environments. Furthermore, the banknotes have higher abundance of potential pathogenic species (~5 times more) and ARGs (~5 times more) with higher dissemination potential (~48 times more) compared with other environmental samples. These findings unveiled the capabilities of this common medium of exchange to accommodate various bacteria, and transmit pathogens and antibiotic resistance. Furthermore, the observed independence of microbiome profile from the city's topological indices led us to formulate a hypothesis that due to their high circulation banknotes may harbor a homogenized microbiome.

Complexity and Dynamics of the Winemaking Bacterial Communities in Berries, Musts, and Wines from Apulian Grape Cultivars through Time and Space

Currently, there is very little information available regarding the microbiome associated with the wine production chain. Here, we used an amplicon sequencing approach based on high-throughput sequencing (HTS) to obtain a comprehensive assessment of the bacterial community associated with the production of three Apulian red wines, from grape to final product. The relationships among grape variety, the microbial community, and fermentation was investigated. Moreover, the winery microbiota was evaluated compared to the autochthonous species in vineyards that persist until the end of the winemaking process. The analysis highlighted the remarkable dynamics within the microbial communities during fermentation. A common microbial core shared among the examined wine varieties was observed, and the unique taxonomic signature of each wine appellation was revealed. New species belonging to the genus Halomonas were also reported. This study demonstrates the potential of this metagenomic approach, supported by optimized protocols, for identifying the biodiversity of the wine supply chain. The developed experimental pipeline offers new prospects for other research fields in which a comprehensive view of microbial community complexity and dynamics is desirable.

Halomonas garicola sp. nov., isolated from saeu-jeot, a Korean salted and fermented shrimp sauce

A Gram-stain-negative, moderately halophilic and facultatively aerobic bacterium capable of respiration with nitrate, designated strain JJ-M1^T, was isolated from saeu-jeot, a traditional Korean fermented shrimp sauce. Cells of the strain were non-motile short rods showing oxidase-negative and catalase-positive reactions and the production of pale-yellow pigments. Growth of strain JJ-M1^T was observed at 20-37 °C (optimum, 30 °C), pH 5.5-9.5 (optimum, pH 7.0) and in the presence of 3-22.5 % (w/v) sea salts (optimum, 10 %). Strain JJ-M1^T contained ubiquinone 9 (Q-9) as the predominant isoprenoid quinone and summed feature 8 (comprising C_18 : 1ω7c and/or C_18 : 1ω6c), C_16 : 0, summed feature 3 (comprising C_16 : 1ω7c and/or C_16 : 1ω6c) and C_12 : 0 3-OH as the major cellular fatty acids. The polar lipids consisted of phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphoglycolipid, diphosphatidylglycerol and four unidentified phospholipids. The genomic DNA G+C content of strain JJ-M1^T was 62.4 mol%. Phylogenetic and comparative analyses, based on 16S rRNA gene sequences, indicated that strain JJ-M1^T formed a tight phyletic lineage with Halomonas jeotgali Hwa^T within the genus Halomonas and was most closely related to Halomonas jeotgali Hwa^T with 96.2 % 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity. Based on phylogenetic, phenotypic and chemotaxonomic features, strain JJ-M1^T represents a novel species of the genus Halomonas, for which the name Halomonas garicola sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is JJ-M1^T ( = KACC 18117^T = JCM 30151^T).

Halomonas salicampi sp. nov., a halotolerant and alkalitolerant bacterium isolated from a saltern soil

A Gram-stain-negative, halotolerant and alkalitolerant bacterium, designated strain BH103T, was isolated from saltern soil in Gomso, Korea. Cells of strain BH103T were strictly aerobic, motile, straight rods and grew at pH 7.0-10.8 (optimum, pH 8.5), at 10-55 °C (optimum, 28 °C) and at salinities of 0-23 % (w/v) NaCl (optimum, 14 % NaCl). Phylogenetic analyses based on 16S rRNA gene sequences indicated that strain BH103T belongs to the genus Halomonas, showing highest sequence similarity to Halomonas boliviensis LC1T (97.7 %), Halomonas neptunia Eplume1T (97.7 %), Halomonas variabilis IIIT (97.7 %), Halomonas alkaliantarctica CRSST (97.7 %), Halomonas olivaria TYRC17T (97.5 %), Halomonas titanicae BH1T (97.2 %) and Halomonas sulfidaeris Esulfide1T (96.2 %). The predominant ubiquinone was Q-9. The major fatty acids were C18 : 1ω7c, C16 : 1ω7c and/or iso-C15 : 0 2-OH, C16 : 0 and C12 : 0 3-OH. The major polar lipids were phosphatidylglycerol, diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, aminophospholipid and an unknown phospholipid. The DNA G+C content of this novel isolate was 54.7 mol%. DNA-DNA relatedness between strain BH103T and H. boliviensis KACC 16615T, H. neptunia KCTC 2888T, H. variabilis KCTC 2889T, H. alkaliantarctica KCTC 22844T, H. olivaria DSM 19074T, H. titanicae JCM 16411T and H. sulfidaeris DSM 15722T was 45, 41, 39, 32, 38, 45 and 35 %, respectively. On the basis of polyphasic analysis from this study, strain BH103T represents a novel species of the genus Halomonas, for which the name Halomonas salicampi sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is BH103T ( = KACC 17609T = NBRC 109914T = NCAIM B 02528T).

Garicola koreensis gen. nov., sp. nov., isolated from saeu-jeot, traditional Korean fermented shrimp

A novel Gram-staining-positive, non-endospore-forming, aerobic bacterium, designated strain SJ5-4T, was isolated from seau-jeot, a traditional food that is made by fermentation of highly salted [approximately 25 % (w/v)] shrimp in Korea. Cells were moderately halophilic, non-motile cocci or short rods that showed catalase- and oxidase-positive reactions. Growth of strain SJ5-4T was observed at 15–40 °C (optimum, 30 °C), at pH 6.0–9.5 (optimum, pH 6.5–7.0) and in the presence of 1–17 % (w/v) NaCl (optimum, 6 %). The major cellular fatty acids of strain SJ5-4T were anteiso-C15 : 0, iso-C15 : 0, anteiso-C17 : 0, iso-C16 : 0 and C16 : 0. Phosphatidylglycerol, diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylinositol, an unidentified phospholipid, three glycolipids and an unidentified lipid were detected as the polar lipids. Strain SJ5-4T belonged to the exceptionally small group of strains within the order Micrococcales that show a peptidoglycan cross-linked according to the A-type but containing 2,4-diaminobutyric acid. The G+C content of the genomic DNA was 61.8 mol%. MK-7, MK-8 and MK-9 were detected as the isoprenoid quinones. Strain SJ5-4T was most closely related to members of the genus Nesterenkonia, with 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities of 93.1–94.8 %. However, phylogenetic inference based on 16S rRNA gene sequences showed that strain SJ5-4T formed a phyletic lineage distinct from members of the genus Nesterenkonia within the family Micrococcaceae . On the basis of its phenotypic and molecular features, strain SJ5-4T represents a novel genus and species of the family Micrococcaceae , for which the name Garicola koreensis gen. nov., sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain of Garicola koreensis is SJ5-4T ( = KACC 16909T = JCM 18572T = DSM 28238T).

Halomonas shantousis sp. nov., a novel biogenic amines degrading bacterium isolated from Chinese fermented fish sauce

A Gram-negative, aerobic, short rod-shaped and non-motile bacterium, designated SWA25(T), was isolated from Chinese fermented fish sauce in Shantou, Guangdong Province, China. Strain SWA25(T) was moderately halophilic, formed colourless colonies and grew at 10-45 °C (optimum, 37 °C) and pH 4-9 (optimum, 6-7) in the presence of 0.5-22.5 % (w/v) NaCl (optimum, 3 %). The major cellular fatty acids (>10 %) were identified as C18:1 ω7C, C16:0, C16:1 ω7c, and C19:0 cyclo ω8c, and the predominant respiratory ubiquinone was Q-9. The genomic DNA G+C content was 61.3 ± 2.1 mol %. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences indicated that strain SWA25(T) belonged to the genus Halomonas in the family Halomonadaceae. The closest relatives were Halomonas xianhensis A-1(T) (96.5 % 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity), H. lutea DSM 23508(T) (96.5 %) and H. muralis LMG 20969(T) (96.1 %). DNA-DNA hybridization assays showed 30.7 ± 2.6 % relatedness between strain SWA25(T) and H. xianhensis A-1(T), and 39.4 ± 4.1 % between strain SWA25(T) and H. lutea DSM 23508(T). On the basis of phenotypic, chemotaxonomic and phylogenetic features, strain SWA25(T) should be placed in the genus Halomonas as a representative of a novel species. The name Halomonas shantousis sp. nov. is proposed, with SWA25(T)(=CCTCC AB 2013151(T) = JCM 19368(T)) as the type strain.

Salimicrobium jeotgali sp. nov., isolated from salted, fermented seafood

A Gram-staining-positive, aerobic, motile bacterium, designated strain MJ3(T), was isolated from myeolchi-jeot (anchovy jeotgal), a traditional fermented seafood in South Korea. Cells were non-endospore-forming cocci showing catalase- and oxidase-positive reactions. Growth of strain MJ3(T) was observed at 15-45 °C (optimum, 30 °C), at pH 6.0-9.0 (optimum, pH 7.0-8.0) and in the presence of 1-24% (w/v) NaCl (optimum, 10% NaCl). Phylogenetic inference based on 16S rRNA gene sequences showed that strain MJ3(T) formed a tight phyletic lineage with members of the genus Salimicrobium. Strain MJ3(T) was related most closely to Salimicrobium salexigens 29CMI(T), Salimicrobium album DSM 20748(T), Salimicrobium flavidum ISL-25(T), Salimicrobium luteum BY-5(T) and Salimicrobium halophilum DSM 4771(T), with similarities of 98.8%, 98.7%, 98.6%, 98.4% and 98.3%, respectively. However, the DNA-DNA relatedness values between strain MJ3(T) (KF732837) and S. salexigens DSM 22782(T), S. album DSM 20748(T), S. flavidum DSM 23127(T), S. luteum KCTC 3989(T) and S. halophilum JCM 12305(T) were 60 ± 5.4%, 58.5 ± 6.5%, 43.6 ± 5.5%, 37.2 ± 5.8% and 16.7 ± 0.2%, respectively. Chemotaxonomic data (sole isoprenoid quinone, MK-7; major cell-wall type, meso-diaminopimelic acid; major cellular fatty acids, anteiso-C15 : 0, anteiso-C17 : 0 and iso-C15 : 0; major polar lipids, phosphatidylglycerol and diphosphatidylglycerol; DNA G+C content, 46.3 mol%) also supported the affiliation of strain MJ3(T) with the genus Salimicrobium. Therefore, strain MJ3(T) represents a novel species of the genus Salimicrobium, for which the name Salimicrobium jeotgali sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is MJ3(T) ( = KACC 16972(T) = JCM 19758(T)).

Microbiology and epidemiology of Halomonas species

Halomonas has been organized as a genus since 1980, and comprises halophilic and/or halotolerant Gram-negative aerobic bacteria, typically found in saline environments. The genus is enlarging: at present, 76 species are taxonomically recognized, with more to be added. Increasing industrial uses have been found, largely in bioremediation and the production of desirable compounds. Originally seen as environmental contaminants, pathogenicity was initially not recognized; however, disease in algae, animals and humans has now been described. As the biotechnological use of these species increases, and the ability to isolate and recognize them improves, one might expect further pathogenic encounters with humans to be described.

Halomonas songnenensis sp. nov., a moderately halophilic bacterium isolated from saline and alkaline soils

A moderately halophilic bacterium (strain NEAU-ST10-39T) was isolated from saline and alkaline soils in the oilfield of Daqing City, Heilongjiang Province, China. The strain was strictly aerobic, Gram-stain-negative, rod-shaped and motile by peritrichous flagella. Its colonies were yellow. It grew at NaCl concentrations of 0.2–15 % (w/v) (optimum 4 %, w/v), at temperatures of 4–40 °C (optimum 35 °C) and at pH 5–10 (optimum pH 7). It did not produce acids from sugars or alcohols. Its DNA G+C content was 57.4 mol%. Phylogenetic analyses based on 16S rRNA gene sequences and concatenated 16S rRNA, gyrB and rpoD gene sequences indicated that it belonged to the genus Halomonas in the class Gammaproteobacteria . The most phylogenetically related species were Halomonas axialensis , Halomonas meridiana and Halomonas aquamarina , whose types shared 98.3 % (16S rRNA), 82.7 % (gyrB) and 83.9–84.5 % (rpoD) sequence similarity with strain NEAU-ST10-39T. The results of DNA–DNA hybridization assays showed 20±2 %–50±1 % relatedness between strain NEAU-ST10-39T and the most closely related species including Halomonas axialensis DSM 15723T, Halomonas meridiana DSM 5425T, Halomonas aquamarina DSM 30161T, Halomonas johnsoniae DSM 21197T, Halomonas stevensii DSM 21198T, Halomonas nanhaiensis CCTCC AB 2012911T, Halomonas hamiltonii DSM 21196T and Halomonas arcis CGMCC 1.6494T. The major fatty acids were C18 : 1ω7c (47.2 %), C16 : 1ω7c and/or C16 : 1ω6c (18.9 %) and C16 : 0 (16.3 %), the only respiratory quinone detected was ubiquinone 9 and polar lipids consisted of diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol, two unknown phospholipids and three unknown lipids. The new isolate is proposed to represent a novel species with the name Halomonas songnenensis sp. nov., NEAU-ST10-39T ( = CGMCC 1.12152T = DSM 25870T) being the type strain.

Halomonas huangheensis sp. nov., a moderately halophilic bacterium isolated from a saline–alkali soil

A novel, Gram-stain-negative, aerobic, rod-shaped, non-motile and moderately halophilic bacterium, designated strain BJGMM-B45T, was isolated from a saline–alkali soil collected from Shandong Province, China. Growth of strain BJGMM-B45T occurred at 10–45 °C (optimum, 30 °C) and pH 5.0–12.0 (optimum, pH 7.0) on Luria–Bertani agar medium with 1–20 % (w/v) NaCl (optimum, 7–10 %). The predominant respiratory quinone was Q-9. The major cellular fatty acids (>5 %) were C18 : 1ω7c, C16 : 0, C19 : 0 cyclo ω8c, summed feature 3, C12 : 0 3-OH and C12 : 0. The genomic DNA G+C content was 57.5 mol%. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences indicated that strain BJGMM-B45T belonged to the genus Halomonas in the class Gammaproteobacteria . The closest relatives were Halomonas cupida DSM 4740T (98.2 % 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity) and Halomonas denitrificans M29T (97.8 %). Levels of DNA–DNA relatedness between strain BJGMM-B45T and Halomonas cupida CGMCC 1.2312T and Halomonas denitrificans DSM 18045T were 57.0 and 58.9 %, respectively. On the basis of phenotypic, chemotaxonomic and phylogenetic features, strain BJGMM-B45T is considered to represent a novel species of the genus Halomonas , for which the name Halomonas huangheensis sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is BJGMM-B45T ( = ACCC 05850T = KCTC 32409T).

Brevibacterium jeotgali sp. nov., isolated from jeotgal, a traditional Korean fermented seafood

A Gram-staining-positive, aerobic, non-motile bacterium, designated strain SJ5-8T, was isolated from seau-jeot (shrimp jeotgal), a traditional fermented seafood in South Korea. Cells were non-spore-forming rods showing catalase- and oxidase-positive reactions. Growth of strain SJ5-8T was observed at 10–37 °C (optimum, 30 °C), at pH 6.0–9.0 (optimum, pH 7.5–8.5) and in the presence of 0–14 % (w/v) NaCl (optimum, 5 %). Phylogenetic inference based on 16S rRNA gene sequences showed that the strain formed a tight phyletic lineage with members of the genus Brevibacterium . Strain SJ5-8T was most closely related to Brevibacterium yomogidense MN-6-aT, Brevibacterium daeguense 2C6-41T and Brevibacterium salitolerans TRM 415T with similarities of 98.9, 97.5 and 97.4 %, respectively. The DNA–DNA relatedness values between strain SJ5-8T and the type strains of B. yomogidense , B. daeguense and B. salitolerans were 51.7±1.9 %, 22.2±4.0 % and 52.4±3.8 %, respectively. Chemotaxonomic data (major sole isoprenoid quinone, MK-8(H2); major diagnostic diamino acid, meso-diaminopimelic acid; major polyamines, putrescine and cadaverine; major cellular fatty acids, anteiso-C15:0, iso-C15:0 and anteiso-C17:0; major polar lipids, phosphatidylglycerol and diphosphatidylglycerol; DNA G+C content, 69.3 mol%) also supported the affiliation of strain SJ5-8T to the genus Brevibacterium . Therefore, strain SJ5-8T represents a novel species of the genus Brevibacterium , for which the name Brevibacterium jeotgali sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is SJ5-8T ( = KACC 16911T = JCM 18571T).

List of new names and new combinations previously effectively, but not validly, published

The purpose of this announcement is to effect the valid publication of the following effectively published new names and new combinations under the procedure described in the Bacteriological Code (1990 Revision). Authors and other individuals wishing to have new names and/or combinations included in future lists should send three copies of the pertinent reprint or photocopies thereof, or an electronic copy of the published paper, to the IJSEM Editorial Office for confirmation that all of the other requirements for valid publication have been met. It is also a requirement of IJSEM and the ICSP that authors of new species, new subspecies and new combinations provide evidence that types are deposited in two recognized culture collections in two different countries. It should be noted that the date of valid publication of these new names and combinations is the date of publication of this list, not the date of the original publication of the names and combinations. The authors of the new names and combinations are as given below, and these authors’ names will be included in the author index of the present issue. Inclusion of a name on these lists validates the publication of the name and thereby makes it available in the nomenclature of prokaryotes. The inclusion of a name on this list is not to be construed as taxonomic acceptance of the taxon to which the name is applied. Indeed, some of these names may, in time, be shown to be synonyms, or the organisms may be transferred to another genus, thus necessitating the creation of a new combination.