Iron-oxidizing bacteria in marine environments: recent progresses and future directions

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Environmental Science
• Biogeochemistry

Background:

• Iron-oxidizing bacteria (FeOB) catalyze the oxidation of dissolved ferrous iron (Fe(II)) to ferric iron (Fe(III)).
• FeOB are phylogenetically diverse, primarily within the Proteobacteria phylum, exhibiting varied oxygen and pH requirements.
• Marine FeOB, particularly Zetaproteobacteria, have gained attention following the isolation of *Mariprofundus ferrooxydans*.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the phylogenetic and physiological diversity of marine FeOB.
• To elucidate the environmental significance of marine FeOB on global and local scales.
• To highlight the industrial applications and growing importance of marine FeOB.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of published research on marine FeOB.
• Phylogenetic analysis of identified marine FeOB based on genetic sequencing.
• Physiological characterization of isolated marine FeOB strains.

Main Results:

• Significant expansion in the detection and isolation of marine FeOB, especially Zetaproteobacteria, since 2007.
• FeOB identified in diverse marine environments, including deep-sea hydrothermal vents and ocean drilling sites.
• Evidence of FeOB involvement in metal corrosion processes.

Conclusions:

• Marine FeOB represent a diverse and ecologically significant microbial group.
• Ongoing research is crucial for understanding their full biochemical capabilities and environmental impact.
• Marine FeOB hold considerable potential for biotechnological and industrial applications.