Bakteerisia

Bakteerisia is a genus of bacteria described as gram-negative, rod-shaped organisms that, in many strains, are motile by a single polar flagellum. Cells typically measure about 0.7–1.4 μm in width and 1.5–3.5 μm in length. The genus is generally aerobic or facultatively anaerobic and exhibits versatile metabolism, capable of using a range of organic substrates, from simple sugars to organic acids.

Habitat and ecology

Bakteerisia species have been isolated from soil, freshwater sediments, and plant rhizospheres across various regions. They contribute to the turnover of plant-derived polymers and, in some strains, produce siderophores to capture iron in fluctuating environments. Their ecological role positions them as environmental decomposers that participate in nutrient cycling in terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems.

Genomics and phylogeny

Genome sizes for described Bakteerisia strains typically fall in the 3.5–5.0 megabase pair range, with GC content around 60–66%. Many strains harbor genes encoding a diverse set of carbohydrate-active enzymes and complete central metabolic pathways, aligning with a lifestyle focused on degrading complex organic matter. Phylogenetically, Bakteerisia is placed within the Gammaproteobacteria, with close relationships to other environmental genera that inhabit soil and aquatic habitats.

Taxonomy and species

The type species is Bakteerisia terrae, with several additional species described as new isolates become available from diverse environments. The genus is considered relatively recently described, and ongoing environmental surveys continue to refine its taxonomy, diversity, and geographic distribution.

Applications and significance

Bakteerisia is studied for its potential contributions to soil carbon cycling and its biotechnological applications, including enzymes capable of biomass conversion and possible use in bioremediation efforts for polluted soils.