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Pink Pigmented Facultative Methylotrophic Bacteria Isolated from Fermented Philippine Shrimp Paste
Christian Jordan O Dela Rosa1,2, Anthony C Lee2, Windell L Rivera1
1Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines.
Abstract:
Pink pigmented facultative methylotrophic (PPFM) bacteria are ecologically distributed microorganisms. They have been isolated in many types of ecosystems like soil, water, air, in association with plants and even as pathogens in humans. However, a yet unexplored area for PPFM bacteria research is in food. Hence, the objective of this study was to establish the presence of PPFM bacteria in Philippine fermented food, in particular shrimp paste, and characterise them phenotypically and genotypically. A total of 13 PPFM bacteria were obtained from Philippine shrimp paste. Sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene revealed that the PPFM bacterial isolates belong to the genus Methylobacterium. A total of 35 phenotypic characterisations were performed that included morphological, biochemical and physiological tests. Phylogenetic tree was constructed to establish the genetic relatedness of the isolates. Morphological test results showed that all 13 isolates were consistent with the established phenotypic characters of the genus such as pink colony colour, Gram negative and rod-shaped. Biochemically, the use of API® 20 NE tests showed heterogeneity of results and physiological tests exhibited that the isolates are primarily mesophilic and halotolerant, being able to grow at 2% salt. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the isolates are Methylobacterium populi, M. dankookense, M. lusitanum, M. radiotolerans and M. zatmanii. This study confirmed the presence and diversity of PPFM bacteria in Philippine shrimp paste. Further studies are needed to show the functional activity of Methylobacterium in Philippine shrimp paste production.
Insights
Pink pigmented facultative methylotrophic (PPFM) bacteria were identified in Philippine shrimp paste. These bacteria, belonging to the *Methylobacterium* genus, were characterized phenotypically and genotypically, revealing their presence and diversity in this fermented food.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Food Science
- Fermentation Technology
Background:
- Pink pigmented facultative methylotrophic (PPFM) bacteria are widespread in various ecosystems.
- PPFM bacteria have not been extensively studied in food environments, particularly fermented foods.
- Philippine shrimp paste is a fermented food product with a unique microbial profile.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and diversity of PPFM bacteria in Philippine shrimp paste.
- To phenotypically and genotypically characterize PPFM bacteria isolated from shrimp paste.
- To explore the potential of *Methylobacterium* species in fermented food applications.
Main Methods:
- Isolation and cultivation of PPFM bacteria from Philippine shrimp paste.
- 16S rRNA gene sequencing for genus identification (*Methylobacterium*).
- Comprehensive phenotypic characterization (morphological, biochemical, physiological tests).
- Phylogenetic analysis to determine genetic relatedness and species identification.
Main Results:
- Thirteen PPFM bacterial isolates were obtained from shrimp paste, all identified as *Methylobacterium*.
- Phenotypic tests confirmed characteristic traits: pink colonies, Gram-negative rods.
- Isolates exhibited mesophilic and halotolerant properties, growing at 2% salt concentration.
- Phylogenetic analysis identified species including *M. populi, M. dankookense, M. lusitanum, M. radiotolerans*, and *M. zatmanii*.
Conclusions:
- This study confirms the presence and diversity of *Methylobacterium* (PPFM) bacteria in Philippine shrimp paste.
- The findings highlight a novel microbial resource within fermented foods.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the functional roles of these *Methylobacterium* species in shrimp paste production.
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