Genomic characterization of eight Ensifer strains isolated from pristine caves and a whole genome phylogeny of Ensifer (Sinorhizobium)

A genomic analysis of eight Ensifer strains isolated from pristine caves, including Wind Cave National Park and Lechuguilla Cave within Carlsbad Caverns National Park, reveals significant genetic overlap between the genera Ensifer and Sinorhizobium. Contrary to traditional phylogenetic separation, these bacteria share over 50% conserved proteins, suggesting they should be classified as a single genus. This finding challenges existing taxonomic boundaries and provides robust genomic evidence for re-evaluating bacterial classification in these environments.

Kumar, H. K. S., Gan, H. M., Tan, M. H., Eng, W. W. H., Barton, H. A., Hudson, A. O., & Savka, M. A. (2017). Genomic characterization of eight Ensifer strains isolated from pristine caves and a whole genome phylogeny of Ensifer (Sinorhizobium). Journal of Genomics, 5, 12–15. https://doi.org/10.7150/jgen.17863