Exiguobacterium sp. NG55 Genome sequencing and assembly

Bacteria of the genus Exiguobacterium have been isolated from diverse habitats including permafrost, microbial mats (Antarctica), glacial ice, marine water, hot springs, and food-processing plants. These microorganisms facilitate bioprocesses such as the metabolism of cellulosic materials, remediation of heavy metals and pesticides, and neutralization of alkaline wastewaters. Genome sequencing of representative strains of the genus Exiguobacterium from a wide range of habitats aims to (1) gain insight into the evolutionary strategies for speciation and environmental adaptation, (2) identify genes that differentiate psychrotrophic and thermophilic members, and (3) compare carbon metabolism genes in species based upon growth temperature.