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Xenorhabdus

Xenorhabdus is a genus of Gram-negative, rod-shaped bacteria in the family Morganellaceae, order Enterobacterales. Members form mutualistic associations with soil-dwelling entomopathogenic nematodes of the genus Steinernema, a relationship central to their biology and ecology. In nature, Xenorhabdus bacteria reside in the gut of infective juvenile nematodes and are carried with the nematode into insect hosts during infection.

When the nematodes invade an insect, Xenorhabdus bacteria are released into the insect’s hemocoel, where they

Xenorhabdus species include several described taxa such as Xenorhabdus nematophila and Xenorhabdus bovienii, among others. Beyond

Genome analyses reveal adaptations that support symbiosis and metabolite production, including plasmid-encoded genes involved in host

rapidly
multiply.
They
produce
a
range
of
toxins
and
secondary
metabolites
that
kill
the
host
and
suppress
competing
microbes,
creating
a
nutrient-rich
cadaver.
The
dying
insect
supports
nematode
reproduction
and
development,
while
the
bacteria
provide
a
bacterial
lawn
that
sustains
the
next
generation
of
infective
juveniles.
The
symbiosis
is
obligate
for
the
nematode
partner,
and
Xenorhabdus
benefits
from
dispersal
and
access
to
new
hosts
via
the
nematode.
their
role
in
insect
biocontrol,
these
bacteria
are
investigated
as
sources
of
bioactive
compounds
with
antimicrobial,
antifungal,
and
insecticidal
properties,
contributing
to
sustainable
pest
management
and
natural
product
research.
interaction
and
nutrient
utilization.
Ongoing
research
aims
to
elucidate
the
molecular
basis
of
the
mutualism,
the
diversity
of
metabolites,
and
their
potential
applications
in
agriculture
and
medicine.