# Amycolatopsis ponsaeliensis sp. nov., a novel endophytic actinobacterium isolated from the root nodules of Alnus glutinosa

## TL;DR

A new species of bacteria, Amycolatopsis ponsaeliensis, was discovered in the root nodules of Alnus glutinosa and may help in plant growth and environmental cleanup.

## Contribution

The discovery and characterization of a novel endophytic actinobacterium with potential biotechnological applications.

## Key findings

- The isolate RTGN1T was identified as a new species of Amycolatopsis based on genomic and phenotypic traits.
- The isolate possesses genes related to secondary metabolite production and plant growth promotion.
- It may have potential as a bioinoculant to enhance phytoremediation.

## Abstract

The root nodules of Alnus glutinosa remain a relatively understudied niche, with poorly described associated microbial communities. In this study, the isolate RTGN1T was recovered from root nodules collected from Gateshead, UK, and was identified as belonging to Amycolatopsis based on 16S rRNA gene similarity and phylogenomic placement. This isolate was polyphasically characterized, displaying the ability to grow between 12 and 28 °C and pH 6 and 8 and exhibiting the genes necessary to produce the polar lipids phosphatidylethanolamine and phosphatidylglycerophosphate, alongside DL-type peptidoglycan, which are diagnostic of Amycolatopsis. Overall genomic relatedness index values were below the cut-off value for delineating a novel species. As such, it is proposed that RTGN1T be recognized as the type strain (=CECT 30870T=CABI 507287T) of Amycolatopsis ponsaeliensis sp. nov. The RTGN1T isolate was screened using in silico and in vitro methods and was found to possess a number of genes and pathways related to secondary metabolite production and plant growth promotion. Such genes may serve as an avenue of future study regarding biotechnological potential and use as a bioinoculant to increase phytoremediation efficiency.