Aphanizomenon flos-aquae and related Nostocales (meta)genome sequencing and assembly

Nostocales are filamentous, phototrophic cyanobacteria that can form dense blooms in eutrophic freshwater lakes. Because they are capable of dinitrogen fixation and possess beneficial nutritional properties, they hold potential for various biotechnological applications, including nutraceuticals and biofertilisers. However, some possess the capacity to produce cyanotoxins that present serious health concerns. This study provides a bioinformatic analysis of 161 Nostocales genomes in the public domain, alongside genome sequencing and comparative analysis of three new Aphanizomenon species, focusing on their taxonomy, putative cyanotoxin production, natural competence and cyanocobalamin nutritional profile, with the overall aim of establishing the genomic foundation for the effective use of Nostocales in biotechnology