Pseudomonas haemolytica sp. nov., isolated from raw milk and skimmed milk concentrate

Katharina Hofmann1, Christopher Huptas1, Etienne V Doll1

  • 1Chair of Microbial Ecology, ZIEL - Institute for Food & Health, Technische Universität München, Weihenstephaner Berg 3, 85354 Freising, Germany.

Insights

A novel Pseudomonas species, Pseudomonas haemolytica, was discovered in raw milk products. This bacterium exhibits strong beta-hemolysis and unique genetic and phenotypic characteristics, expanding our understanding of dairy-associated microbes.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Genomics
  • Dairy Science

Background:

  • The genus *Pseudomonas* comprises diverse bacteria found in various environments, including dairy products.
  • Identification and characterization of novel species are crucial for understanding microbial ecosystems and potential applications.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To identify and characterize a previously unknown *Pseudomonas* species isolated from raw cow's milk and skimmed milk concentrate.
  • To establish the taxonomic and phylogenetic position of the novel isolates within the *Pseudomonas* genus.

Main Methods:

  • 16S rRNA and *rpoD* gene sequencing for initial identification.
  • Multilocus sequence analysis (MLSA) and average nucleotide identity (ANIm) using draft genome sequences.
  • Phenotypic characterization including growth conditions, biochemical tests, and hemolysis assays.
  • Analysis of polar lipids, quinones, and fatty acid profiles.

Main Results:

  • Two strains, WS 5063T and WS 5067, were identified as a novel *Pseudomonas* species based on phylogenetic analyses.
  • The novel species is most closely related to *Pseudomonas synxantha* with an ANIm of 91.4%.
  • The isolates are aerobic, motile rods, positive for catalase and oxidase, exhibiting strong β-hemolysis and specific growth ranges (4-34°C, pH 5.5-8.0).
  • Major polar lipids included phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol, and diphosphatidylglycerol; the dominant quinone was Q-9.
  • Fatty acid profiles were typical for *Pseudomonas*, with C16:0 as the major component.

Conclusions:

  • The two isolates represent a novel species, *Pseudomonas haemolytica* sp. nov.
  • The type strain is WS 5063T (=DSM 108987T=LMG 31232T).
  • This discovery contributes to the taxonomic diversity of the *Pseudomonas* genus in dairy environments.

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