Pseudomonas fluorescens

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A Microbial Biorealm page on the genus Pseudomonas fluorescens

Classification

Higher order taxa

Bacteria; Proteobacteria; Gammaproteobacteria; Pseudomonadales; Pseudomonadaceae

Species

Pseudomonas fluorescens

NCBI: Taxonomy

Description and significance

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.

P. fluorescens are gram-negative rod shaped bacteria. They possess multiple polar flagella for motility. The main habitats include soil, plants, and water. Soluble, green fluorescent pigments are produced when iron concentration is low. The significance of these organisms have increased because of their ability to degrade various pollutants and their use as biocontrol against pathogens.

Genome structure

Describe the size and content of the genome. How many chromosomes? Circular or linear? Other interesting features? What is known about its sequence? Does it have any plasmids? Are they important to the organism's lifestyle?

Currently, two strains of P. fluorescens have the genomes sequenced completely. has one chromosome

Cell structure and metabolism

Describe any interesting features and/or cell structures; how it gains energy; what important molecules it produces.

produces viscosin which is a peptidolipid that enhances antivirality. P. fluorescensuses a sulfate transport system that is competitively inhibited by chromate, which may be associated to P. flurorescens's sensitivity to chromate.

Ecology

Describe any interactions with other organisms (included eukaryotes), contributions to the environment, effect on environment, etc.

Pathology

How does this organism cause disease? Human, animal, plant hosts? Virulence factors, as well as patient symptoms.

Application to Biotechnology

Does this organism produce any useful compounds or enzymes? What are they and how are they used?

P. fluorescens produce exopolysaccharides which are used for protection against bacteriophages or dehydration as well as for defense against the host immune system. Polysaccharides are being used within the food, chemical, and agricultural industries.

Current Research

Enter summaries of the most recent research here--at least three required

References

[Sample reference] Takai, K., Sugai, A., Itoh, T., and Horikoshi, K. "Palaeococcus ferrophilus gen. nov., sp. nov., a barophilic, hyperthermophilic archaeon from a deep-sea hydrothermal vent chimney". International Journal of Systematic and Evolutionary Microbiology. 2000. Volume 50. p. 489-500.

Edited by Danielle Kim, student of Rachel Larsen and Kit Pogliano