Genome analysis-based union of the genus Mesoplasma with the genus Entomoplasma

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Taxonomy
• Genomics

Background:

• Early classification of Entomoplasma and Mesoplasma relied on biological and chemical traits.
• 16S rRNA gene sequencing revealed intermixing, challenging distinct genus separation.
• A comprehensive genome-level analysis of Entomoplasmataceae species was recently conducted.

Purpose of the Study:

• To revise the taxonomy of the Entomoplasmataceae family based on genome-level data.
• To determine the correct taxonomic placement of Acholeplasma multilocale.
• To clarify the phylogenetic relationships within the Entomoplasmataceae family.

Main Methods:

• Phylogenetic analysis using 16S rRNA gene sequences.
• Comparative genome analysis of all 17 validly published species in Entomoplasmataceae.
• Evaluation of gene content and identification of genus-specific genes.

Main Results:

• Phylogenetic and gene content analyses showed intermixed species from Entomoplasma and Mesoplasma.
• The study supports merging Entomoplasma and Mesoplasma into a single genus, Entomoplasma.
• Acholeplasma multilocale was confirmed to belong to this cluster and should be renamed Entomoplasma multilocale.

Conclusions:

• The taxonomy of Entomoplasmataceae requires revision, merging Mesoplasma into Entomoplasma.
• Despite forming a paraphyletic genus, Entomoplasma is morphologically and ecologically distinct from Spiroplasma and Mycoplasma.
• This revision provides a more accurate classification of these mollicutes.