Genomic and phenotypic characterization of novel Ochrobactrum species isolated from Brazilian oil reservoirs: Genomic diversity and bioremediation potential

Abstract

A recurring theme is the quest for microorganisms with a high capability to degrade toxic hydrocarbons or produce biosurfactants to aid in bioremediation. This study identified two new bacterial species isolated from samples collected in Brazilian oil reservoirs. The phylogenetic analysis revealed two distinct clusters. AP1BH01–1, BD18, BD22, BD23, and BD61 formed one cluster that resembles Ochrobactrum intermedium. In contrast, BD67 clustered more closely with Ochrobactrum pseudointermedium. The whole genome analysis showed significant genetic differences from known species within the Ochrobactrum genus. OrthoANI (< 91.14 %) and dDDH (< 42.80 %) values for our isolates were notably lower than expected for species classification and supported by genomic correlation matrix cluster, synteny, pan-genome, and phylogenetical analysis. Our isolates can utilize petroleum as a carbon source, showing unique genes dedicated to the degradation of aromatic hydrocarbons and metal detoxification. Notably, the isolates can degrade petroleum, pyrene, and hexacosene. Moreover, despite the absence of a cluster dedicated to biosurfactant production, all isolates demonstrated their proficiency in emulsifier production. The isolates exhibit distinctive genotypic and phenotypic characteristics compared to the known Ochrobactrum species. Considering these findings, we propose naming AP1BH01–1, BD18, BD22, BD23, and BD61 as Ochrobactrum oleinvorans and BD67 as Ochrobactrum oleophilic.