Gramella forsetii
A Microbial Biorealm page on the genus Gramella forsetii
Classification
Higher order taxa
Kingdom: Bacteria; Group: Bacteroidetes/Chlorobi; Phylum: formerly Cytophaga-Flavobacteria-Bacteroides(CFB)
Species
Gramella genus
Description and significance
This species was isolated from concentrated seawater collected from the German Bight in the North Sea, during a phytoplankton bloom. They are found on macroscopic organic matter particles (marine snow). They have been shown to represent significant part of free-living microbial assemblages in nutrient-rich microenvironments. Their abundance and distribution pattern in combination with enzymatic activity studies has led to the notion that organisms of this group are specialists for degradation of high molecular weight compounds in both the dissolved and particulate fraction of the marine organic matter pool, implying a major role of Bacteroidetes in the marine carbon cycle.
Describe the appearance, habitat, etc. of the organism, and why it is important enough to have its genome sequenced. Describe how and where it was isolated. Include a picture or two (with sources) if you can find them.
Genome structure
'Gramella forsetii' KT0803.
Size: 3 Mb; Chromosome: 1
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Cell structure and metabolism
Cell Structure: Gram Negative Shape: Rod Environment: Non-halophilic, Aerobic, Multiple Habitat, Mesophilic
Functional analysis of the predicted proteome disclosed several traits which in joint consideration suggest a clear adaptation of this marine Bacteroidetes representative to the degradation of high molecular weight organic matter, such as a substantial suite of genes encoding hydrolytic enzymes, a predicted preference for polymeric carbon sources and a distinct capability for surface adhesion.
Describe any interesting features and/or cell structures; how it gains energy; what important molecules it produces.
Ecology
Whole genome analysis of the marine Bacteroidetes'Gramella forsetii' reveals adaptations to degradation of polymeric organic matter.
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Pathology
Application to Biotechnology
Their ability to degrade high molecular weight compounds in both the dissolved and particulate fraction of the marine organic matter pool proves Bacteroidetes' contribution in the marine carbon cycle.
Does this organism produce any useful compounds or enzymes? What are they and how are they used?
Current Research
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References
Edited by student of Rachel Larsen and Kit Pogliano
