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The entomopathogen “Corynebacterium okanaganae” was described by Luthy in 1974 but the name was never validly published. Phylogenetic analysis employing 16S rRNA gene sequences demonstrate that “Corynebacterium okanaganae” is not a member of the genus Corynebacterium but related to members of the Microbacteriaceae being most closely related to, but distinct from, members of the genera Rathayibacter, Mycetocola and Curtobacterium. The bacterium is an aerobic, Gram-positive staining, rod-shaped actinobacterium with the cell-wall peptidoglycan based on 2,4, diaminobutyric acid as the diagnostic diamino acid. The predominant menaquinones are MK-10, MK-11 and MK-12, and the principle polar lipids are phosphatidylglycerol and diphosphatidylglycerol. The major fatty acids consist of anteiso-C15:0 and anteiso-C17:0. Therefore, based upon the phylogenetic, biochemical, and chemotaxonomic information, the organism merits recognition as a novel species and genus in the family Microbacteriaceae, for which the name Luethyella okanaganae gen. nov. sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is LBG B4405T = CCUG 43304T = NCIMB 702272T.

Three strains of a Gram-positive, catalase-positive, fermentative, non-lipophilic, previously unknown bacterium were isolated from urogenital samples taken from mares in Scotland (M401624/00/1) and Sweden (VM 2074 and VM 2298(T)). All were deposited with the CCUG with tentative identifications as Corynebacterium spp. The strains were characterized using a polyphasic taxonomic approach. Biochemically, the strains were very similar to each other, but phylogenetically distinct from Corynebacterium species with validly published names (≤95% sequence similarity). rpoB gene sequence data confirmed the strains belonged to the same species (>99% sequence similarity) and were distinct from species with validly published names (>13% sequence divergence). On the basis of phenotypic and sequence data, the strains represent a novel species within the genus Corynebacterium, for which the name Corynebacterium uterequi is proposed. The type strain is VM 2298(T) (=CCUG 61235(T)=DSM 45634(T)), isolated from equine uterus.

A Gram-positive-staining, aerobic, endospore-forming bacterium, isolated from a necrotic wound of a 35-year-old man was studied in detail to determine its taxonomic position. Based on 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity comparisons, strain CCUG 53270T was grouped into the genus Paenibacillus , most closely related to the type strains of Paenibacillus rigui (97.2 %), Paenibacillus xylanisolvens (96.3 %) and Paenibacillus chinjuensis (96.1 %). The 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity to strains of other Paenibacillus species was ≤96 %. Chemotaxonomic characterization supported the allocation of the strain to the genus Paenibacillus . The major menaquinones were MK-7 (85 %) and MK-6 (15 %). The polar lipid profile contained the major compounds diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylmonomethylethanolamine, phosphatidylethanolamine and phosphatidylglycerol. The polyamine pattern contained predominantly spermidine. The major fatty acids were iso- and anteiso-branched fatty acids. The results of physiological and biochemical tests allowed phenotypic differentiation of strain CCUG 53270T from closely related species. Thus, strain CCUG 53270T represents a novel species of the genus Paenibacillus , for which the name Paenibacillus vulneris sp. nov. is proposed, with CCUG 53270T ( = JCM 18268T) as the type strain.

A novel obligately anaerobic, non-spore-forming, rod-shaped mesophilic bacterium, which stained Gram-positive but showed the typical cell wall structure of Gram-negative bacteria, was isolated from an upflow anaerobic filter treating abattoir wastewaters in Tunisia. The strain, designated LIND7HT, grew at 20–45 °C (optimum 35–40 °C) and at pH 5.0–8.5 (optimum pH 6.5–7.5). It did not require NaCl for growth, but was able to grow in the presence of up to 2 % NaCl. Sulfate, thiosulfate, elemental sulfur, sulfite, nitrate and nitrite were not used as terminal electron acceptors. Strain LIND7HT used cellobiose, glucose, lactose, mannose, maltose, peptone, rhamnose, raffinose, sucrose and xylose as electron donors. The main fermentation products from glucose metabolism were lactate, acetate, butyrate and isobutyrate. The predominant cellular fatty acids were anteiso-C15 : 0, C15 : 0, C17 : 0 2-OH and a summed feature consisting of C18 : 2ω6,9c and/or anteiso-C18 : 0, and the major menaquinones were MK-9, MK-9(H2) and MK-10. The G+C content of the genomic DNA was 41.4 mol%. Although the closest phylogenetic relatives of strain LIND7HT were Parabacteroides merdae , Parabacteroides goldsteinii and Parabacteroides gordonii , analysis of the hsp60 gene sequence showed that strain LIND7HT was not a member of the genus Parabacteroides . On the basis of phylogenetic inference and phenotypic properties, strain LIND7HT ( = CCUG 60892T = DSM 23697T = JCM 16313T) is proposed as the type strain of a novel species in a new genus within the family Porphyromonadaceae , Macellibacteroides fermentans gen. nov., sp. nov.

A Gram-positive, coccoid, non-endospore-forming actinobacterium (strain CCUG 35676T) was isolated from cerebrospinal fluid from a 24-year-old woman in Gothenborg, Sweden. Based on pairwise 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity studies, strain CCUG 35676T was shown to belong to the genus Dietzia and was most closely related to the type strains of Dietzia aerolata (99.3 %), Dietzia lutea (98.8 %), Dietzia schimae (98.5 %), Dietzia maris (98.5 %), Dietzia alimentaria (98.3 %) and Dietzia cercidiphylli (98.0 %). The major menaquinone was MK-8(H2). Major polar lipids were phosphatidylglycerol, diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylinositol, an unidentified aminophospholipid (APL1), an unidentified phospholipid (PL1) and unidentified glycolipids (GL1 and GL3). Numerous other lipids were also detected. The fatty acid profile, comprising C16 : 0, C17 : 0, C18 : 1ω9c and 10-methyl-C18 : 0 as major fatty acids, supported the affiliation of strain CCUG 35676T to the genus Dietzia. On the basis of the results of physiological and biochemical tests and DNA–DNA hybridizations, a clear phenotypic and genotypic differentiation of strain CCUG 35676T from the most closely related Dietzia species is possible. Strain CCUG 35676T represents a novel species, for which the name Dietzia aurantiaca sp. nov. is proposed, with CCUG 35676T ( = JCM 17645T) as the type strain.

Dahlen G, Charalampakis G, Abrahamsson I, Bengtsson L, Falsen E. Predominant bacterial species in subgingival plaque in dogs. J Periodont Res 2012; 47: 354–364. © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S Background and Objective: The dog has been used extensively for experimental and microbiological studies on periodontitis and peri-implantitis without detailed knowledge about the predominant flora of the subgingival plaque. This study was designed to evaluate the predominant cultivable bacterial species in dogs and compare them phenotypically and genotypically with corresponding human species. Material and Methods: Four subgingival samples were taken from two upper premolars in each of six Labrador retrievers. The samples from each dog were processed for anaerobic culture. From the samples of each dog, the five or six predominating bacteria based on colony morphology were selected and pure cultured. Each of the strains was characterized by Gram stain, anaerobic/aerobic growth and API-ZYM test. Eighteen strains showing clear-cut phenotypic differences were further classified based on DNA sequencing technology. Cross-reactions of DNA probes from human and dog strains were also tested against a panel of both human and dog bacterial species. Results: Thirty-one strains in the dogs were isolated and characterized. They represented 21 different species, of which six belonged to the genus Porphyromonas. No species was found consistently in the predominant flora of all six dogs. Porphyromonas crevioricanis and Fusobacterium canifelinum were the two most prevalent species in predominant flora in dogs. DNA probes from human and dog species cross-reacted to some extent with related strains from humans and dogs; however, distinct exceptions were found. Conclusion: The predominant cultural subgingival flora in dogs shows great similarities with the subgingival bacteria from humans at the genus level, but distinct differences at the species level; however, a genetic relatedness could be disclosed for most strains investigated.

Eighteen Corynebacterium xerosis strains isolated from different animal clinical specimens were subjected to phenotypic and molecular genetic studies. On the basis of the results of the biochemical characterization, the strains were tentatively identified as C. xerosis . Phylogenetic analysis based on comparative analysis of the sequences of 16S rRNA and rpoB genes revealed that the 18 strains were highly related to C. xerosis , C. amycolatum , C. freneyi , and C. hansenii . There was a good concordance between 16S rRNA and partial rpoB gene sequencing results, although partial rpoB gene sequencing allowed better differentiation of C. xerosis . Alternatively, C. xerosis was also differentiated from C. freneyi and C. amycolatum by restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis of the 16S-23S rRNA gene intergenic spacer region. Phenotypic characterization indicated that besides acid production from d -turanose and 5-ketogluconate, 90% of the strains were able to reduce nitrate. The absence of the fatty acids C 14:0 , C 15:0 , C 16:1 ϖ7 c , and C 17:1 ϖ8 c can also facilitate the differentiation of C. xerosis from closely related species. The results of the present investigation demonstrated that for reliable identification of C. xerosis strains from clinical samples, a combination of phenotypic and molecular-biology-based identification techniques is necessary.

The protein profiles, genomic amplified fragment length polymorphism patterns and 16S rRNA and cpn60 gene sequences of a diverse collection of 26 Bacteroides ureolyticus strains, along with published data on their DNA base, respiratory quinone and cellular fatty acid compositions, were used to reassess the taxonomy of this bacterial species. The results demonstrate that this organism is most appropriately allocated in the genus Campylobacter. The presence of much higher amounts of 18 : 1ω7c in its cellular fatty acid profile and its ability to digest gelatin and casein are the characteristics that differentiate it from present species of the genus Campylobacter. Therefore we propose to reclassify this species incertae sedis into the genus Campylobacter as Campylobacter ureolyticus with strain LMG 6451T (=CCUG 7319T =NCTC 10941T) as the type strain.

A beige-pigmented bacterium (strain CCUG 53761AT) was isolated from human blood from an 85-year-old man in Göteborg, Sweden. Comparative analysis of 16S rRNA gene sequences showed that this bacterium displayed Alcaligenaceae. It grouped within the radiation of the genus Alcaligenes, but showed only 93.0–94.8 % similarity to type strains of members of this genus (Alcaligenes faecalis subsp. parafaecalis, 94.8 %; Alcaligenes faecalis subsp. faecalis, 94.2 %; Alcaligenes faecalis subsp. phenolicus, 93.4 %). This discrimination was supported by chemotaxonomic differences. The polyamine pattern consisted of the predominant compound putrescine, moderate amounts of spermidine and minor to trace amounts of spermine and cadaverine; 2-hydroxyputrescine was not detectable. The quinone system was ubiquinone Q-8 with minor amounts of Q-7. The polar lipid profile was composed of the major lipids diphosphatidylglycerol and phosphatidylethanolamine and moderate amounts of phosphatidylglycerol and an unknown phospholipid; minor lipids were also detected. The fatty acid profile, with large amounts of C16 : 0 and C17 : 0 cyclo and the absence of C12 : 0 2-OH as hydroxylated fatty acid, also differed significantly from those reported for Alcaligenes species. On the basis of these data, it is proposed that strain CCUG 53761AT represents a novel genus and species, for which the name Paenalcaligenes hominis gen. nov., sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain of Paenalcaligenes hominis is CCUG 53761AT =CCM 7698T.

The taxonomic positions of two Gram-positive, endospore-forming rods, strains CCUG 53915T and CCUG 53480T, isolated from an industrial clean-room floor and from a human blood sample, respectively, were studied. 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity studies revealed that both isolates clearly clustered with Sporosarcina species. Strain CCUG 53915T was most closely related to Sporosarcina koreensis and Sporosarcina soli, showing 99.4 and 99.2 % 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities to the type strains of these species, respectively. Strain CCUG 53480T showed the highest 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities to the type strains of S. koreensis (98.7 %) and Sporosarcina saromensis (98.6 %). Strains CCUG 53915T and CCUG 53480T had peptidoglycan type A4α l-Lys–d-Glu. The quinone systems of both strains were composed predominantly of menaquinone MK-7, with small amounts of MK-8. The polar lipid profiles of both strains consisted of phosphatidylglycerol, diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine and three unidentified phospholipids. The fatty acid profiles, which comprise anteiso- and iso-branched fatty acids, supported affiliation of the two isolates to the genus Sporosarcina. The results of physiological and biochemical tests and DNA–DNA hybridization data allowed a clear phenotypic and genotypic differentiation of both strains from the most closely related Sporosarcina species. For this reason, it is proposed that strains CCUG 53915T (=DSM 22204T) and CCUG 53480T (=DSM 22203T) represent two novel species in the genus Sporosarcina, with the names Sporosarcina contaminans sp. nov. and Sporosarcina thermotolerans sp. nov., respectively.

A strictly aerobic, Gram-negative bacterium, strain KIN192T, isolated from fresh water from Lake Kinneret, Israel, was examined using a polyphasic approach to characterize and clarify its phylogenetic and taxonomic position. Sequences of the 16S rRNA and gyrB genes and ITS1 revealed close relationships to species of the genera Pelomonas, Mitsuaria and Roseateles, in the Rubrivivax branch of the family Comamonadaceae of the Betaproteobacteria. Physiological and biochemical tests, cellular fatty acid analysis and DNA–DNA hybridizations indicated that this strain should be assigned to a new genus and species in the Rubrivivax phylogenetic branch, for which the name Kinneretia asaccharophila gen. nov., sp. nov., is proposed. The type strain of Kinneretia asaccharophila is strain KIN192T (=CCUG 53117T =CECT 7319T).

Two strains of Gram-positive cocci were isolated from viscera of common voles (Microtus arvalis Pallas) with generalized Brucella microti infection in the Czech Republic. Biochemical features and phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences showed that the strains are representatives of the genus Staphylococcus and assigned Staphylococcus muscae as the nearest relative. A detailed characterization done by ribotyping, rpoB and hsp60 gene sequencing, whole-cell protein analysis and rep-PCR using the (GTG)5 primer differentiated the two strains from all described staphylococci. DNA–DNA hybridization with the type strain of S. muscae demonstrated that the two strains should be considered as members of a novel species (26.8 % reassociation). The two analysed strains were found to be coagulase-negative, novobiocin-susceptible, oxidase-negative cultures, phenotypically close to one another, but showing differences in ribotype profiles. The major fatty acids were iso-C15 : 0, iso-C17 : 0, anteiso-C15 : 0, C18 : 2 ω6,9c/anteiso-C18 : 0, C18 : 0 and C18 : 1 ω9c. MK-7 was the predominant isoprenoid quinone, with minor amounts of MK-6 and MK-8. The polar lipid profile was composed of the major lipids diphosphatidylglycerol and phosphatidylglycerol and several unknown lipids. These results proved that the two isolates represent a novel staphylococcal species. The name proposed for this novel taxon is Staphylococcus microti sp. nov.; the type strain is 4005-LJ(m)T (=CCM 4903T =CCUG 55861T =DSM 22147T).

Strain CCUG 50899, a Gram-negative, rod-shaped, non-spore-forming, motile bacterium isolated from industrial environment in Sweden and tentatively assigned to the species Ochrobactrum anthropi, was studied in order to clarify its taxonomic status. 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities placed the strain in the genus Ochrobactrum, sharing highest similarity with the type strains of Ochrobactrum rhizosphaerae (99.3 %), Ochrobactrum thiophenivorans (98.7 %), Ochrobactrum pseudogrignonense (98.6 %) and Ochrobactrum grignonense (98.5 %). The fatty acid profile of [O. anthropi] CCUG 50899 (major fatty acids C18 : 1 ω7c and C19 : 0 cyclo ω8c and presence of C18 : 1 2-OH), the polar lipid profile (diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylmonomethylethanolamine, phosphatidylethanolamine, two unknown aminolipids and an unknown phospholipid), the presence of the quinone system ubiquinone Q-10 and a polyamine pattern with the major compounds putrescine and spermidine and moderate amounts of sym-homospermidine supported its affiliation to the genus Ochrobactrum. DNA–DNA reassociation experiments with the type strains of its closest relatives O. rhizosphaerae, O. pseudogrignonense, O. thiophenivorans and O. grignonense demonstrated that [O. anthropi] CCUG 50899 should be placed in a novel species, which is distinguishable from related species by a set of biochemical traits. Based on these data, reclassification of [O. anthropi] CCUG 50899 as the type strain of a novel species appears to be justified. Hence, we describe a novel species to accommodate this strain, for which we propose the name Ochrobactrum pituitosum sp. nov. The type strain is CCUG 50899T (=DSM 22207T).

Strain VC-230T was isolated from homemade vermicompost produced from kitchen waste. The isolate was a Gram-negative-staining, catalase- and oxidase-positive, motile rod-shaped bacterium able to grow at 15-37 °C and pH 6-8. On the basis of 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis, strain VC-230T was determined to belong to the family Sphingomonadaceae by its clustering with type strains of the genus Sphingobium, with Sphingobium chlorophenolicum ATCC 33790T (97.7 %) and Sphingobium herbicidovorans DSM 11019T (97.4 %) as its closest neighbours. The polar lipid pattern, the presence of spermidine and ubiquinone 10, the predominance of the cellular fatty acids C18:1ω7c/9t/12t, C16:1ω7c and C16:0 and the G+C content of the genomic DNA supported the affiliation of this organism to the genus Sphingobium. The phylogenetic, chemotaxonomic, phenotypic and DNA-DNA hybridization analyses verify that strain VC-230T represents a novel species, for which the name Sphingobium vermicomposti sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is VC-230T (=CCUG 55809T =DSM 21299T).

Three Gram-positive, rod-shaped, oxidase-negative, non-spore-forming, non-motile bacteria (KSS-3Se(T), KSS-4Se and KSS-10Se) were isolated from a coolant lubricant. 16S rRNA gene sequence analyses revealed almost identical sequences, with only a few (

Three cases of γ-heavy chain disease (γ-HCD) are reported. Two of the patients had a clinical picture of malignant lymphoma, similar to most of the cases earlier described. One patient, however, had a benign process characterized by a symptomless splenomegaly and a moderate plasmocytosis in bone marrow and spleen. This patient, followed since 1964, is still alive and in good health. In all three cases the existence in serum and urine of an M-component with IgG specificity was demonstrated. Gel filtration and immunoelectrophoresis showed that these proteins had a molecular weight below that of normal IgG and that they did not react with antisera against light chains. The clinical and morphological features of the earlier reported cases of γ-HCD are briefly reviewed and compared with the findings in our patients. It is further discussed whether the presence of an M-component consisting only of γ-heavy chains is an accidental finding in cases with a proliferation of immunocompetent cells or whether patients with this abnormality represent a uniform disease entity.

A polyphasic taxonomic study was performed on six strains of an unknown Gram-positive, non-motile, spore-forming, short oval to rod-shaped bacterium isolated from a swine-manure storage pit. In addition to these strains, an isolate deposited in the Culture Collection of the University of Göteborg (Sweden) was found to be biochemically related to the manure strains. The major end products of metabolism included acetate and succinate but not butyrate. Comparative 16S rRNA gene sequencing confirmed that all these isolates were closely related to each other and formed a hitherto unknown lineage within the clostridial rRNA XIVa cluster of organisms. On the basis of phylogenetic, biochemical and phenotypic evidence, it is proposed that the unknown bacterium represents a novel genus and species, for which the name Robinsoniella peoriensis gen. nov., sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain of Robinsoniella peoriensis is PPC31T (=CCUG 48729T =NRRL B-23985T).

We have previously characterized two new enterococcal species (provisionally designated CDC PNS-E1 and CDC PNS-E2) recovered from clinically significant specimens associated with invasive infections in humans. In the present report we provide additional data and propose formal denominations for isolates of these two species of Enterococcus . Results of 16S rRNA gene sequencing, sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoretic analysis of whole-cell protein profiles, and DNA-DNA reassociation experiments indicated that the blood isolate ATCC BAA-780 (SS 1728; CDC PNS-E1) corresponds to Enterococcus italicus , whose species epithet was proposed to designate isolates from artisanal Italian cheese. Strain ATCC BAA-781 (CCUG 47861; SS 1729; CDC PNS-E2), a vancomycin-resistant isolate recovered from the blood of a patient in the United States, was found to be highly related at the species level to another blood isolate (SS 1743; CCUG 47884) from Sweden, and for these we propose the designation Enterococcus sanguinicola sp. nov.

Six Gram-negative, rod-shaped, non-spore-forming bacteria isolated from clinical specimens and water samples were investigated for their taxonomic allocation. On the basis of 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities, these strains (CCUG 35299(T), CCUG 24677A, CCUG 48018, CCUG 49054, CCUG 48700A and CCUG 38318(T)) were shown to belong to the Betaproteobacteria, closely related to Naxibacter alkalitolerans (97.9-98.8 % sequence similarity to the type strain). Chemotaxonomic data (major ubiquinone Q-8; major polyamines hydroxyputrescine and putrescine; major polar lipids phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol and diphosphatidylglycerol; major fatty acids C(16 : 1)omega7c and C(16 : 0), with 3-OH C(10 : 0) and 2-OH C(12 : 0) as hydroxylated fatty acids) supported the affiliation of the isolates to the genus Naxibacter. The results of DNA-DNA hybridization and physiological and biochemical tests allowed both genotypic and phenotypic differentiation of the isolates from the described Naxibacter species. Isolates CCUG 35299(T), CCUG 24677A, CCUG 48018, CCUG 49054 and CCUG 48700A were closely related on the basis of DNA-DNA reassociation experiments and therefore represent a single novel species, for which the name Naxibacter varians sp. nov. is proposed, with the type strain CCUG 35299(T) (=CCM 7478(T)). Strain CCUG 38318(T) represents a second novel Naxibacter species, for which we propose the name Naxibacter haematophilus sp. nov. (type strain CCUG 38318(T) =CCM 7480(T)).

Three strains of aerobic Gram-negative bacilli, two isolated from industrial water and freshwater (strains CCUG 48205(T) and CCUG 52220) and the third from soil (strain CCUG 52222(T)), were analysed phenotypically and genotypically to clarify their taxonomic classification. 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis revealed that the three strains were located on the same phylogenetic branch, closely related to Roseateles depolymerans, the only recognized species in the genus. DNA-DNA hybridization studies, analyses of fatty acid contents, and physiological and biochemical tests supported the proposal of two novel species, Roseateles aquatilis sp. nov. (type strain, CCUG 48205(T)=CECT 7248(T)) and Roseateles terrae sp. nov. (type strain, CCUG 52222(T)=CECT 7247(T)).

Two Gram-negative, rod-shaped, oxidase-positive, non-spore-forming, non-motile bacteria (strains CCUG 49009T and CCUG 49012), both isolated from drinking water, were characterized. On the basis of chemotaxonomic data [major ubiquinone, Q-8; predominant polyamines, putrescine and 2-hydroxyputrescine; major polar lipids, phosphatidylethanolamine, moderate amounts of diphosphatidylglycerol and phosphatidylglycerol and minor amounts of three aminolipids and phosphatidylserine; major fatty acids, C16:0 and summed feature 3 (C16:1ω7c/C15:0 iso 2-OH)] and 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities, both strains clearly belong to the family Oxalobacteraceae of the Betaproteobacteria. 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities with members of the most closely related genera of this group (Herminiimonas, Massilia, Duganella, Telluria, Herbaspirillum, Janthinobacterium, Naxibacter and Paucimonas) were less than 96.5 % for both strains. The two strains also shared a relatively low 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity (96.8 %) Although phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities clearly showed that the two organisms formed a separate branch, their phenotypes (including chemotaxonomic features) were hardly distinguishable and showed high similarities to those reported for the most closely related genera. On the basis of DNA-DNA hybridization results, the two strains were shown to represent separate species (sharing only 20 % DNA-DNA relatedness), but they could not be clearly differentiated phenotypically from each other. It is evident that these organisms represent a new genus, Undibacterium gen. nov., with one species, Undibacterium pigrum sp. nov. The type strain of Undibacterium pigrum is strain CCUG 49009T (= CIP 109318T). Strain CCUG 49012 (= CIP 108976) probably represents a second species of this genus, but is described here as a second genomovar of this species because of the lack of differentiating characters. © 2007 IUMS.

Leptotrichia amnionii , a recently described, very fastidious, gram-negative anaerobic bacterium, is an opportunistic pathogen of the female urogenital tract. We report a case of second-trimester abortion in a patient with chorioamnionitis and L. amnionii bacteremia and a case of renal abscess in a female 5 weeks postpartum.

The taxonomic position of 12 isolates tentatively assigned to the genus Bifidobacterium on the basis of a limited phenotypic characterization was examined. The isolates were collected between 1978 and 2005 in Belgium, Sweden and Norway, and originated from various human clinical samples, including urine, blood, urethra, oral cavity, tonsil, and abscesses of lung and aortic valve. On the basis of band number and clustering analysis, repetitive DNA element-based PCR fingerprinting using the BOXA1R and (GTG)5 primers indicated that the clinical isolates represented a taxon probably not belonging to the genus Bifidobacterium. Analysis of 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities revealed that the isolates were most closely affiliated to Parascardovia denticolens LMG 18312T (93.0–93.2 %), Scardovia inopinata LMG 18313T (92.9–93.1 %) and other members of the Bifidobacteriaceae, indicating that the isolates belong to a novel genus within that family. This observation was further substantiated by the results of partial sequencing of the heat-shock protein 60 gene (hsp60) and determination of the DNA G+C contents (47.3–48.3 mol%). Members of the novel taxon can be phenotypically distinguished from S. inopinata, P. denticolens and Gardnerella vaginalis by the ability to grow on agar under aerobic conditions and on the basis of positive reactions for acid production from l-arabinose, raffinose, salicin and d-xylose. Unambiguous phenotypic differentiation from Aeriscardovia aeriphila and Bifidobacterium species may be difficult, so phenotypic analyses should be complemented by molecular methods. The values for DNA–DNA binding among four members of the novel genus were in the range of 89–100 %, indicating that the strains should be considered as a single novel species of a novel genus, for which the name Alloscardovia omnicolens gen. nov., sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain of Alloscardovia omnicolens is CCUG 31649T (=LMG 23792T).

A polyphasic taxonomic study was performed on an uncharacterized Gram-positive, catalase-negative, elongated coccus-shaped bacterium isolated from a swine-manure storage pit. The bacterium, designated strain PPC9T, was facultatively anaerobic and had a DNA G+C content of 44.5 mol%. Comparative 16S rRNA gene sequencing indicated that the bacterium represented a novel subline within the genus Vagococcus, close to but distinct from Vagococcus lutrae. Strain PPC9T was readily distinguished from the five recognized species of the genus Vagococcus by using biochemical tests and molecular genetic analysis. Based on phylogenetic and phenotypic evidence strain PPC9T is considered to represent a novel species of the genus Vagococcus, for which the name Vagococcus elongatus sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is PPC9T (=CCUG 51432T=NRRL B-41357T).

A Gram-negative, rod-shaped, oxidase-positive, non-spore-forming, non-motile bacterium (strain CCUG 49584T), isolated from a seafood processing plant sample in New Zealand, was subjected to a polyphasic taxonomic study. On the basis of 16S rRNA and recA gene sequence similarities, the isolate was allocated to the genus Pseudochrobactrum. This was confirmed by fatty acid data (major fatty acids: C18 : 1 ω7c and C19 : 0 cyclo ω8c), a polar lipid profile exhibiting major characteristics of Pseudochrobactrum (phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylmonomethylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol, diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylcholine), quinone system Q-10 and a polyamine pattern with the predominant compounds spermidine and putrescine. DNA–DNA hybridization with the type strains of the two established species of Pseudochrobactrum and physiological and biochemical data clearly differentiated the isolate from established Pseudochrobactrum species. As a consequence, this organism represents a novel species, for which the name Pseudochrobactrum kiredjianiae sp. nov. is proposed, with the type strain CCUG 49584T (=CIP 109227T).

The phenotypic and genotypic characteristics of four Bordetella hinzii-like strains from human respiratory specimens and representing nrdA gene sequence based genogroups 3, 14 and 15 were examined. In a 16S rRNA gene sequence based phylogenetic tree, the four strains consistently formed a single coherent lineage but their assignment to the genus Bordetella was equivocal. The respiratory quinone, polar lipid and fatty acid profiles generally conformed to those of species of the genus Bordetella and were characterized by the presence of ubiquinone 8, of phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol, diphosphatidylglycerol and several aminolipids, and of high percentages of C16 : 0, cyclo-C17 : 0 and summed feature 2, as major chemotaxonomic marker molecules, respectively. The DNA G+C content was about 66 mol%, which corresponded with that of the high-percentage DNA G+C content genera of the family Alcaligenaceae including the genus Bordetella. DNA–DNA hybridization experiments revealed the presence of three distinct genomospecies and thus confirmed phenotypic differences as revealed by means of extensive biochemical characterization. We therefore propose to formally classify Bordetella genogroups 3, 14 and 15 as Bordetella bronchialis sp. nov. (type strain LMG 28640T = AU3182T = CCUG 56828T), Bordetella sputigena sp. nov. (type strain LMG 28641T = CCUG 56478T) and Bordetella flabilis sp. nov. (type strain LMG 28642T = AU10664T = CCUG 56827T). In addition, we propose to reclassify Achromobacter sediminum into the novel genus Verticia, as Verticia sediminum, gen. nov., comb. nov., on the basis of its unique phylogenetic position, its marine origin and its distinctive phenotypic, fatty acid and polar lipid profile.

Two Gram-negative, rod-shaped, oxidase-positive, non-spore-forming, non-motile bacteria (CCUG 46016T and CCUG 33852T), isolated from a knee aspirate of a 66-year-old man and an industrial glue, respectively, were studied for their taxonomic position. On the basis of chemotaxonomic data [i.e. major ubiquinone (Q-10), major polar lipids (phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol and phosphatidylcholine) and major fatty acids (C18:1ω7c and C19:0 cyclo ω8c)] and 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity, both strains belong to the Alphaproteobacteria. The presence of spermidine and putrescine as the predominant polyamines in CCUG 46016T were in agreement with its phylogenetic affiliation in the vicinity of the genus Ochrobactrum. 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities between both strains and established species within the genera Bartonella, Ochrobactrum and Brucella were less than 95%. Although both organisms showed highest 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity to members of Brucella, phenotypic features (including chemotaxonomic features) were more like those of members of the genus Ochrobactrum. Sequence comparison of the recA genes confirmed the separate phylogenetic position of the two strains. On the basis of DNA-DNA pairing results and physiological and biochemical data, the two strains can be clearly differentiated from each other and from all known Ochrobactrum species. It is evident that these organisms represent two novel species in a new genus, Pseudochrobactrum gen. nov., for which the names Pseudochrobactrum asaccharolyticum sp. nov. (the type species, type strain CCUG 46016T=CIP 108977T) and Pseudochrobactrum saccharolyticum sp. nov. (type strain CCUG 33852T=CIP 108976T) are proposed. © 2006 IUMS.

Phenotypic and phylogenetic studies were performed on three isolates of an unknown Gram-negative, facultatively anaerobic, non-motile, yellow-pigmented, rod-shaped organism isolated from raw sewage. 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis indicated that these strains were members of the Bergeyella–Chryseobacterium–Riemerella branch of the family Flavobacteriaceae. The unknown bacterium was readily distinguished from reference strains by 16S rRNA gene sequencing and biochemical tests. The organism contained menaquinone MK-6 as the predominant respiratory quinone and had a DNA G+C content of 31 mol%. A most probable number-PCR approach was developed to detect, and estimate the numbers of, this organism. Untreated wastewater from one plant yielded an estimated count of 1.4×105 cells ml−1, and untreated wastewater from a second plant yielded an estimated count of 1.4×104 cells ml−1. Signal was not detected from treated effluent or from human stool specimens. On the basis of the results of the study presented, it is proposed that the unknown bacterium be classified in a novel genus Cloacibacterium, as Cloacibacterium normanense gen. nov., sp. nov., which is also the type species. The type strain of Cloacibacterium normanense is strain NRS1T (=CCUG 46293T=CIP 108613T=ATCC BAA-825T=DSM 15886T).

A Gram-positive, rod-shaped, endospore-forming organism, strain CCUG 47242T, was isolated from a sample of industrial starch production in Sweden. 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis demonstrated that this isolate was moderately related to species of the genus Paenibacillus, with

Two Gram-negative, rod-shaped, non-spore-forming bacteria (CCUG 39402T and CCUG 39797), isolated from different water sources, were investigated in a polyphasic study. The two isolates shared 100 % 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity and it was shown that they belonged to the Betaproteobacteria, most closely related to Polaromonas vacuolata (97·8 %) and Polaromonas naphthalenivorans (97·8 %). A polyamine pattern with 2-hydroxyputrescine and putrescine, as well as ubiquinone Q-8, were in agreement with characteristics of Betaproteobacteria. The presence of diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol and phosphatidylethanolamine, and major fatty acids C16 : 1 ω7c, C16 : 0 and C17 : 0 cyclo supported the affiliation of the two strains to the genus Polaromonas. The results of DNA–DNA hybridization and physiological and biochemical tests allowed genotypic and phenotypic differentiation of the two isolates from the two Polaromonas species with validly published names. They therefore represent a novel species, for which the name Polaromonas aquatica sp. nov. is proposed, with the type strain CCUG 39402T (=CIP 108776T).

Two strains of an unknown Gram-positive, catalase-negative, facultatively anaerobic, coccus-shaped bacterium, originating from a porpoise and a grey seal, were characterized using phenotypic, biochemical and molecular phylogenetic methods. Chemical studies revealed the presence of a cell-wall murein based on l-lysine (type l-lys–gly–d-Asp) and a DNA G+C content of 38 mol%. Comparative 16S rRNA gene sequencing showed that this unidentified coccus-shaped organism formed a hitherto unknown subline closely related to, albeit distinct from, a number of other catalase-negative genera which included Enterococcus, Melissococcus, Tetragenococcus and Vagococcus. Other known Gram-positive, catalase-negative taxa were more distantly related. Tree-branching considerations and sequence divergence values of >6 % with recognized taxa were indicative of this novel bacterium representing a separate genus. Based on phenotypic and phylogenetic evidence, it is proposed that this unknown bacterium, recovered from a porpoise and a grey seal, be classified as a novel genus and species, Catellicoccus marimammalium gen. nov., sp. nov. The type strain is M35/04/3T (=CCUG 49459T=CIP 108575T).

Two Gram-negative, anaerobic, non-spore-forming, rod-shaped organisms were isolated from a swine-manure storage pit. Based on morphological and biochemical criteria, the strains were tentatively identified as belonging to the genus Bacteroides but they did not appear to correspond to any recognized species of the genus. Comparative 16S rRNA gene sequencing studies showed that the strains were related closely to each other and confirmed their placement in the genus Bacteroides, but sequence divergence values of >10 % from reference Bacteroides species demonstrated that the organisms from manure represent a novel species. Based on biochemical criteria and molecular genetic evidence, it is proposed that the unknown isolates from manure be assigned to a novel species of the genus Bacteroides, as Bacteroides coprosuis sp. nov. The type strain is PC139T (=CCUG 50528T=NRRL B-41113T).

A novel Gram-positive, aerobic, catalase-negative, coccus-shaped organism originating from tobacco was characterized using phenotypic and molecular taxonomic methods. The organism contained a cell wall murein based on l-lysine (variation A4α, type l-lysine–l-glutamic acid), synthesized long-chain cellular fatty acids of the straight-chain saturated and monounsaturated types (with C16 : 1 ω9, C16 : 0 and C18 : 1 ω9 predominating) and possessed a DNA G+C content of 46 mol%. Based on morphological, biochemical and chemical characteristics, the coccus-shaped organism did not conform to any presently recognized taxon. Comparative 16S rRNA gene sequencing studies confirmed the distinctiveness of the unknown coccus, with the bacterium displaying sequence divergence values of greater than 7 % with other recognized Gram-positive taxa. Treeing analysis reinforced its distinctiveness, with the unidentified organism forming a relatively long subline branching at the periphery of an rRNA gene sequence cluster which encompasses the genera Alloiococcus, Allofustis, Alkalibacterium, Atopostipes, Dolosigranulum and Marinilactibacillus. Based on phenotypic and molecular phylogenetic evidence, it is proposed that the unknown organism from tobacco be classified as a new genus and species, Atopococcus tabaci gen. nov., sp. nov. The type strain of Atopococcus tabaci is CCUG 48253T (=CIP 108502T).

Morphological, biochemical and molecular genetic studies were carried out on an unknown non-spore-forming, Gram-positive, rod-shaped bacterium that was isolated from dog faeces. The bacterium grew under strictly anaerobic conditions, was asaccharolytic, and possessed a relatively high G+C content of 61 mol%. Phylogenetic analysis based on comparative 16S rRNA gene sequencing showed that the unidentified bacterium was a member of the family Coriobacteriaceae and represents a hitherto unknown subline within the genus Slackia. Based on the presented findings, a novel species, Slackia faecicanis sp. nov., is described. The type strain of Slackia faecicanis is 5WC12T (=CCUG 48399T=CIP 108281T).

The description of the new species Cardiobacterium valvarum prompted a search for additional strains of the organism. Here we report characterization of four oral Cardiobacterium strains from the Culture Collection of the University of Goteborg. The 16S rRNA gene sequences of the organisms exhibited 99.6% to 99.3% homology with Cardiobacterium valvarum. The cellular fatty acid profiles, electrophoretic patterns of whole-cell proteins, growth rate and nutritional requirement, colonial and cellular morphology, and biochemical reactions were also similar to those of C. valvarum . These results thus classify these organisms as oral strains of C. valvarum . All strains were susceptible to many antibiotics tested. The description of the species was emended. C. valvarum is a rare cause of endocarditis, and its relationship with periodontal diseases may need investigation.

Two Gram-negative, non-fermentative, non-denitrifying, non-pigmented, rod-shaped bacteria that were motile by means of polar flagella, designated strains KMM 330T and KMM 331, were isolated from a deep-sea sponge specimen and subjected to a polyphasic taxonomic study. The new isolates exhibited 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity of 99·9 %, and their mean level of DNA–DNA relatedness was 82 %. Phylogenetic analysis based on their 16S rRNA gene sequences placed the strains within the genus Pseudomonas as an independent deep clade. Strain KMM 330T shared highest sequence similarity (96·3 %) with each of Pseudomonas fulva NRIC 0180T, Pseudomonas parafulva AJ 2129T and Pseudomonas luteola IAM 13000T; sequence similarity to other recognized species of the genus Pseudomonas was below 95·7 %. The marine sponge isolates KMM 330T and KMM 331 could be distinguished from the other recognized Pseudomonas species based on a unique combination of their phenotypic characteristics, including growth in 8 or 10 % NaCl, the absence of pigments, the inability to denitrify and lack of carbohydrate utilization. On the basis of phylogenetic analysis, physiological and biochemical characterization, strains KMM 330T and KMM 331 should be classified as a novel species of the genus Pseudomonas, for which the name Pseudomonas pachastrellae sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is KMM 330T (=JCM 12285T=NRIC 0583T=CCUG 46540T).

A polyphasic taxonomic study of 14 isolates recovered from various human and veterinary clinical samples was performed. Phenotypically these isolates shared several characteristics with members of the Alcaligenaceae and related genera. Random amplified polymorphic DNA fingerprinting and whole-cell protein analysis suggested the presence of multiple genomic groups, which was confirmed by DNA–DNA hybridization experiments. 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis indicated that these isolates were related to the genera Pelistega, Taylorella, Oligella, Pigmentiphaga, Alcaligenes, Kerstersia, Achromobacter and Bordetella and belonged to the family Alcaligenaceae. Based on the results of the present study the organisms were classified in a novel genus, Advenella gen. nov. This genus comprises one named species, Advenella incenata sp. nov. (type strain LMG 22250T=CCUG 45225T) and five currently unnamed genomic species. The DNA G+C content of members of the novel genus Advenella is between 54·0 and 57·7 mol%.

Two Pseudomonas-like yellow-orange-pigmented non-fluorescent denitrifying strains KMM 235 and KMM 1447T were isolated from marine ascidian specimens and investigated by a polyphasic approach to clarify their taxonomic status. On the basis of 16S rDNA gene sequence data the new isolates clustered with the Pseudomonas stutzeri species group with sequence similarities of >98%. The results of DNA-DNA hybridization and biochemical characterization showed genetic and phenotypic distinction between strains KMM 235 and KMM 1447T and from the other validly described Pseudomonas species. Strain KMM 235 was found to be closely related to the type strain of Pseudomonas stutzeri in their phenotypic and genetic characteristics and represented, probably, a new P. stutzeri genomovar. It is proposed that strain KMM 1447T be classified as a new species of the genus Pseudomonas, Pseudomonas xanthomarina sp. nov., with the type strain KMM 1447T (=JCM 12468T=NRIC 0617T=CCUG 46543T).

Strain LB400T is the best-studied polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) degrader. This organism has previously been allocated in the genus Burkholderia, since its 16S rRNA gene sequence shows 98·6 % sequence similarity to the type strains of Burkholderia graminis and Burkholderia terricola. A polyphasic study was undertaken to clarify the actual taxonomic position of this biotechnologically important organism and of two strains, one recovered from a blood culture vial and one from a coffee plant rhizosphere, both of which resembled strain LB400T in their whole-cell protein patterns. DNA–DNA hybridization experiments revealed that the three strains represented a single novel species, for which the name Burkholderia xenovorans sp. nov. is proposed. Strains of this novel species can be differentiated phenotypically from nearly all other Burkholderia species by their inability to assimilate l-arabinose. The whole-cell fatty acid profile of B. xenovorans strains is consistent with their classification in the genus Burkholderia, with 18 : 1ω7c, 16 : 1ω7c, 16 : 0, 14 : 0 3OH, 16 : 0 3OH, 17 : 0 cyclo and 14 : 0 being the most abundant fatty acids. The G+C content of the species varies between 62·4 and 62·9 mol%. The type strain of B. xenovorans is LB400T (=LMG 21463T=CCUG 46959T=NRRL B-18064T).

Morphological, biochemical and molecular genetic studies were carried out on an unknown non-spore-forming, Gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium which was isolated from dog faeces. The bacterium grew under anaerobic conditions, was asaccharolytic, resistant to 20 % (v/v) bile and was oxidase- and urease-negative. Phylogenetic analysis based on comparative 16S rRNA gene sequencing showed that the unidentified bacterium clustered withSutterella wadsworthensis, although a sequence divergence of >5 % indicated that the bacterium from dog faeces represented a previously unrecognized subline within the genus. On the basis of the presented findings, a novel species,Sutterella stercoricanissp. nov., is described. The type strain ofSutterella stercoricanisis 5BAC4T(=CCUG 47620T=CIP 108024T).

A previously undescribed, Gram-positive, catalase-negative, coccus-shaped organism that originated from a human wound was subjected to taxonomic study. On the basis of its cellular morphology and the results of biochemical testing, the unknown organism was identified tentatively as a member of the genus Helcococcus, but it did not correspond to either of the two recognized species of this genus. Comparative 16S rRNA gene sequencing studies confirmed that the bacterium was associated phylogenetically with the genus Helcococcus, with the unidentified organism forming a hitherto unknown subline within the genus. On the basis of biochemical, molecular chemical and molecular phylogenetic evidence, it is proposed that the unknown organism that was recovered from a human wound should be classified as a novel species of the genus Helcococcus, namely Helcococcus sueciensis sp. nov. The type strain is CCUG 47334T (=CIP 108183T).

Six novel gliding, heterotrophic, Gram-negative, yellow-pigmented, aerobic, oxidase- and catalase-positive bacteria were isolated from the green alga Ulva fenestrata, sea water and a bottom sediment sample collected in the Gulf of Peter the Great, Sea of Japan. 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis revealed that the strains studied were members of the family Flavobacteriaceae. On the basis of their phenotypic, chemotaxonomic, genotypic and phylogenetic characteristics, the novel bacteria have been assigned to the new genus Maribacter gen. nov., as Maribacter sedimenticola sp. nov., Maribacter orientalis sp. nov., Maribacter aquivivus sp. nov. and Maribacter ulvicola sp. nov., with the type strains KMM 3903T (=KCTC 12966T=CCUG 47098T), KMM 3947T (=KCTC 12967T=CCUG 48008T), KMM 3949T (=KCTC 12968T=CCUG 48009T) and KMM 3951T (=KCTC 12969T=DSM 15366T), respectively.

An unknown Gram-positive, catalase-positive, facultatively anaerobic, non-spore-forming, coccus-shaped bacterium originating from sediment was characterized using phenotypic, molecular chemical and molecular phylogenetic methods. Chemical studies revealed the presence of a cell-wall murein based on ll-diaminopimelic acid (type ll-Dpm-glycine1), a complex mixture of saturated, monounsaturated and iso- and anteiso-methyl-branched, non-hydroxylated, long-chain cellular fatty acids and tetrahydrogenated menaquinones with eight isoprene units [MK-8(H4)] as the major respiratory lipoquinone. This combination of characteristics somewhat resembled members of the suborder Micrococcineae, but did not correspond to any currently described species. Comparative 16S rRNA gene sequencing confirmed that the unidentified coccus-shaped organism is a member of the Actinobacteria and represents a hitherto-unknown subline related to, albeit different from, a number of taxa including Intrasporangium, Janibacter, Terrabacter, Terracoccus and Ornithinicoccus. Based on phenotypic and phylogenetic considerations, it is proposed that the unknown bacterium originating from lake sediment be classified as a new genus and species, Arsenicicoccus bolidensis gen. nov., sp. nov. (type strain CCUG 47306T=DSM 15745T).

It has long been thought that the genera Mobiluncus and Falcivibrio contain the same organisms. Using a polyphasic approach, it was found that Mobiluncus curtisii and Mobiluncus mulieris were the same as Falcivibrio vaginalis and Falcivibrio grandis, respectively. As the genus name Mobiluncus takes precedence, it is proposed that F. vaginalis and F. grandis be transferred to the genus Mobiluncus. In agreement with previous studies, results from phenotypic tests did not support the separation of M. curtisii strains into its two subspecies, M. curtisii subsp. curtisii and M. curtisii subsp. holmesii. Phenotypic complexity within M. curtisii dictates that the species should be treated as a complex until more in-depth analyses of the species have been performed. Phylogenetic analyses, based on 16S rRNA gene sequences, demonstrated that the genus Mobiluncus was associated with Varibaculum cambriense and the two subspecies of Actinomyces neuii, and that A. neuii is only distantly related to Actinomyces sensu stricto.

An unusual Gram-positive, facultatively anaerobic, catalase-positive, diphtheroid-shaped organism originating from an unknown human clinical source was characterized by biochemical, molecular chemical and molecular phylogenetic methods. Based on its morphological and biochemical characteristics and the presence of a murein based on meso-diaminopimelic acid, the unidentified organism was tentatively assigned to the genus Corynebacterium. However, the unknown organism was found to lack the distinctive, short-chain corynomycolic acids that are considered to be characteristic of this genus. Despite the absence of these characteristic lipids, comparative 16S rRNA gene sequencing showed that the unknown bacterium was phylogenetically a member of the genus Corynebacterium and was distinct from all currently known species. Based on both phenotypic and 16S rRNA sequence considerations, it is proposed that the unknown organism be classified as a novel species, Corynebacterium atypicum sp. nov. The type strain of C. atypicum is strain R2070T (=CCUG 45804T =CIP 107431T).

Three clusters of isolates have previously been defined within the species Comamonas terrigena, on the basis of DNA-rRNA and DNA-DNA hybridization data, and of protein electrophoretic patterns and immunotyping. More detailed characterization in the current study shows that representatives of these three groups can also be differentiated phenotypically from each other. Strains of C. terrigena sensu stricto (C. terrigena DNA group 1) are pyrrolidone aminopeptidase-positive, do not grow at 40 degrees C, are L-alanine-positive and are always negative for 4-hydroxybenzoate. Strains of C. terrigena DNA groups 2 and 3 are pyrrolidone aminopeptidase-negative; the former is the only group that is tyrosine-negative, and only the latter can grow at 42 degrees C (with an optimal growth temperature of 40 degrees C). These findings are corroborated by differences in 16S rDNA sequence and tRNA intergenic spacer lengths. Therefore, it is proposed to rename C. terrigena DNA group 2 [containing former Aquaspirillum aquaticum and E. Falsen (EF) group 10 strains] as Comamonas aquatica sp. nov., and C. terrigena DNA group 3 (containing former EF group 10 strains) as Comamonas kerstersii sp. nov.

An unknown Gram-positive, catalase-negative, facultatively anaerobic, non-spore-forming, rod-shaped bacterium originating from semen of a pig was characterized using phenotypic, molecular chemical and molecular phylogenetic methods. Chemical studies revealed the presence of a directly cross-linked cell wall murein based on L-lysine and a DNA G + C content of 39 mol%. Comparative 16S rRNA gene sequencing showed that the unidentified rod-shaped organism formed a hitherto unknown subline related, albeit loosely, to Alkalibacterium olivapovliticus, Alloiococcus otitis, Dolosigranulum pigrum and related organisms, in the low-G + C-content Gram-positive bacteria. However, sequence divergence values of11% from these recognized taxa clearly indicated that the novel bacterium represents a separate genus. Based on phenotypic and phylogenetic considerations, it is proposed that the unknown bacterium from pig semen be classified as a new genus and species, Allofustis seminis gen. nov., sp. nov. The type strain is strain 01-570-1(T) (= CCUG 45438(T) = CIP 107425(T)).

The present study establishes a data compilation on biochemical features and natural antibiotic susceptibilities of Moellerella wisconsensis strains. 17 moellerellae isolated from humans (n = 11), food (n = 5) and water (n = 1) were tested. Identification was carried out using two commercially available systems and conventional tests. MIC determinations of 74 antibiotics were performed applying a microdilution procedure in Cation-adjusted Mueller Hinton broth and IsoSensitest broth. M. wisconsensis was naturally sensitive to doxycycline, minocycline, all tested aminoglycosides, numerous beta-lactams, all fluoroquinolones, folate-pathway inhibitors, chloramphenicol and nitrofurantoin. Natural resistance was found with oxacillin, penicillin G, all tested macrolides, lincomycin, streptogramins, ketolides, glycopeptides, fusidic acid, linezolid and rifampicin. Medium-dependent differences in susceptibility affecting clinical assessment criteria were seen with tetracycline, clindamycin and fosfomycin. From the data of the present study it is possible that some moellerellae are misidentified as Klebsiella pneumoniae subsp. ozaenae.