The complete genome sequence of the archaeal isolate Halomicrobium sp. ZPS1 reveals the nitrogen metabolism characteristics under hypersaline conditions

Abstract

Abstract Purpose As a potential tool for the biodegradation of nitrogen contaminants, including nitrate, nitrite, and ammonium, in pickled foods with high salinity, the halophilic and denitrifying archaeal strain Halomicrobium sp. ZPS1 was isolated from edible salt particles. Methods Under anaerobic and static culture conditions, Halomicrobium sp. ZPS1 could simultaneously degrade nitrate, nitrite, and ammonium in liquid medium with 18% salinity and generate N2O. To gain insight into these physiological characteristics, the complete genome of Halomicrobium sp. ZPS1 was sequenced to reveal the mechanism of nitrogen metabolism associated with salt-tolerance. Result The complete genome sequencing revealed a genome size of 3,094,203 bp with a circular chromosome and a GC content of 65.64%. Based on gene annotation, 3191 CDSs, 6 rRNA genes, and 76 tRNA genes were identified. Moreover, 28 genes were annotated as related to salt tolerance, ammonium assimilation, and a truncated denitrification pathway. Conclusion The annotated functional genes indicate that Halomicrobium sp. ZPS1 could be a candidate strain for the simultaneous removal of nitrate, nitrite, and ammonia in extremely high salt environments.

Keywords

• Halomicrobium sp.
• Salt tolerance
• Ammonia assimilation
• Denitrification