Comparative Genomics of the Genus Methanohalophilus, Including a Newly Isolated Strain From Kebrit Deep in the Red Sea

Conclusion Methanogens are important players in the carbon cycle of hypersaline habitats. However, not much is known about the characteristics of methanogens from the deep-sea brine habitats of the Red Sea and no cultures existed. In this study, we describe a novel isolate (strain RSK) from the BSI of Kebrit Deep of the Red Sea representing a novel species within the genus Methanohalophilus. In order to understand why species of the genus Methanohalophilus are successful in chemically diverse hypersaline environments, we analyzed and compared the genomic inventory among five Methanohalophilus species to elucidate genomically conserved traits and underlying mechanisms for oxidative and osmotic adaptation. Their genomic toolboxes encompass versatile metabolic strategies potentially contributing to their osmo-adaptation in polyextreme hypersaline environments. We suggest that niche adaptation of Methanohalophilus populations is driven by their different genomic capacities in sulfur and glycogen metabolisms, viral resistance, amino acid and peptide uptake. Author Contributions US conceived and designed the study. YG, DN, and MV, performed the analysis of the sequence data and bioinformatics tasks. JB and IA developed and maintained EDGAR and INDIGO bioinformatic platforms. JF designed the archaeal growth strategy. YG and SG performed the laboratory work. YG and US wrote the manuscript. YG, DN, JF, and US critically reviewed and edited the manuscript. All authors approved the f...
Source: Frontiers in Microbiology - Category: Microbiology Source Type: research