Why and how to use the SeqCode

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Bioinformatics
• Taxonomy

Background:

• The International Code of Nomenclature of Prokaryotes (ICNP) traditionally requires type strain deposition in culture collections.
• A vast diversity of prokaryotes remains uncultured, limiting their formal taxonomic description.
• Genome sequencing is increasingly used for prokaryotic identification and classification.

Purpose of the Study:

• Introduce the SeqCode (Code of Nomenclature of Prokaryotes Described from Sequence Data) as a novel system for prokaryotic nomenclature.
• Enable the naming of prokaryotes, particularly uncultured species, using genome sequences as type material.
• Establish a unified taxonomic framework for both cultured and uncultured prokaryotes.

Main Methods:

• Genome sequences serve as nomenclatural types for prokaryotic species under the SeqCode.
• The SeqCode operates with rules similar to the ICNP but omits the requirement for type strain deposition.
• An online Registry (seqco.de) facilitates the valid publication of names starting January 1, 2022.

Main Results:

• The SeqCode allows permanent naming of prokaryotes from environmental DNA and those difficult to culture.
• Validly published names under the SeqCode compete with ICNP names for priority post-2022.
• A single, unique name is established for each prokaryotic species, integrating cultured and uncultured organisms.

Conclusions:

• The SeqCode is essential for naming the majority of prokaryotic species due to the prevalence of uncultured organisms.
• It facilitates effective communication and the development of unified prokaryotic taxonomies.
• The SeqCode Community encourages participation in the ongoing development of this nomenclature system.