AUTHOR=Gao Lei , Fang Bao-Zhu , Lu Chun-Yan , Hong Kun-Hui , Huang Xin-Yu , She Ting-Ting , Xiao Min , Li Wen-Jun 

TITLE=Unraveling the genomic diversity and ecological potential of the genus Demequina: insights from comparative analysis of different saline niche strains

JOURNAL=Frontiers in Marine Science

VOLUME=10

YEAR=2023

URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/marine-science/articles/10.3389/fmars.2023.1244849

DOI=10.3389/fmars.2023.1244849

ISSN=2296-7745

ABSTRACT=<p>During an investigation of the culturable microbial diversity of sediments with salinity from tidal flats and saline lake, seven strains of the genus <italic>Demequina</italic> were harvested. The genomic analysis and physiological characteristics of strains of this genus have unveiled their significant potential in degrading complex carbon source such as lignin, hemicellulose, chitin, and oligosaccharides. In addition, these strains show potential abilities in nitrite ammonification and sulfide oxidation. These findings not only improved our understanding of their metabolic model, but also provided valuable insights into their ecological roles. Four new species of the genus <italic>Demequina</italic> are described: <italic>Demequina litoralis</italic> sp. nov., with SYSU T00192<sup>T</sup> designated as the type species; <italic>Demequina zhanjiangensis</italic> sp. nov., with SYSU T00b26<sup>T</sup> as the type species; <italic>Demequina lignilytica</italic> sp. nov., with SYSU T00068<sup>T</sup> as the type species; and <italic>Demequina muriae</italic> sp. nov., with EGI L300058<sup>T</sup> as the type species. Additionally, strains SYSU T0a273, SYSU T00039-1, and SYSU T00039 are identified as different strains of <italic>Demequina lignilytica</italic>. Our study thus sheds light on the diversity, biological significance, and ecological contribution of the <italic>Demequina</italic> genus in different habitats.</p>