Rubrobacter spartanus sp. nov., a moderately thermophilic oligotrophic bacterium isolated from volcanic soil

Researchers have identified and characterized a novel species of bacterium, Rubrobacter spartanus, isolated from volcanic soil within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. This moderately thermophilic and oligotrophic bacterium thrives optimally at 50°C and pH 8.0, with a growth range spanning 45-55°C and pH 5.0-10.0. Genetic analysis revealed that Rubrobacter spartanus is closely related to Rubrobacter taiwanensis but distinct enough to warrant classification as a new species. The bacterium exhibits unique fatty acid profiles, including C18:0 14-methyl and C16:0 12-methyl, which are characteristic of the genus Rubrobacter. Additionally, it possesses MK-8 as its sole respiratory quinone, aligning with other members of the family Rubrobacteraceae. This discovery expands our understanding of microbial diversity in extreme environments like volcanic soils.

Norman, J. S., King, G. M., & Friesen, M. L. (2017). Rubrobacter spartanus sp. nov., a moderately thermophilic oligotrophic bacterium isolated from volcanic soil. International Journal of Systematic and Evolutionary Microbiology, 67(9), 3597–3602. https://doi.org/10.1099/ijsem.0.002175