Genome sequence of Erwinia amylovora bacteriophage Omen

Gabriel Abreu1, Edgar Garcia1, Ana Oliveira1

  • 1Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.

Insights

We sequenced the genome of Erwinia amylovora phage Omen, found in Portugal. This myovirus phage has a large genome and is closely related to other Erwinia phages.

Area of Science:

  • Bacteriophage genomics
  • Plant pathology
  • Microbial genetics

Background:

  • Erwinia amylovora causes fire blight, a devastating disease in orchards.
  • Bacteriophages are viruses that infect bacteria and can be potential biocontrol agents.
  • Genomic characterization of phages is crucial for understanding their biology and applications.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To report the complete genome sequence of Erwinia amylovora phage Omen.
  • To classify Omen within existing phage taxonomy.
  • To compare Omen's genome with related Erwinia phages.

Main Methods:

  • Isolation of Erwinia amylovora phage Omen from a Portuguese orchard.
  • Whole-genome sequencing and assembly.
  • Bioinformatic analysis for genome annotation and phylogenetic comparison.

Main Results:

  • The genome of phage Omen was sequenced, measuring 85,304 bp.
  • Phage Omen belongs to the Kolesnikvirus genus, exhibiting a myovirus morphotype.
  • Omen shares over 80% nucleotide identity with other Erwinia phage genomes.

Conclusions:

  • The genome sequence provides valuable data for understanding Erwinia amylovora-phage interactions.
  • Omen's classification aids in the broader study of Kolesnikvirus diversity.
  • High sequence identity suggests potential for cross-application or shared evolutionary history with other Erwinia phages.

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