Genome sequence of the marine flavobacterium Croceitalea dokdonensis DOKDO 023 that contains proton- and sodium-pumping rhodopsins

Abstract

Bacteroidetes are considered as efficient degraders of the high-molecular-weight particulate organic matter that is present in the marine environment. Here, we report the first genome sequence of the genus Croceitalea that belongs to Flavobacteriia. Gratifying the reputation, the genome of Croceitalea dokdonensis DOKDO 023 encodes many hydrolytic enzymes for utilizing biopolymers, mainly polysaccharides and proteins. The genome also harbors two genes for microbial rhodopsins, proteorhodopsin and a recently discovered sodium pump. This research provides a genetic basis for better understanding of Croceitalea, as well as insights into the strategies adapted by a rhodopsin-containing photoheterotroph to thrive in the marine environment.

Keywords: High-molecular-weight particulate organic matter; Marine flavobacteria; Proteorhodopsin; Sodium pump.