Photorhabdus heterorhabditis strain:VMG Genome sequencing and assembly. Photorhabdus heterorhabditis strain:VMG

Photorhabdus spp. have been the focus of intensive study due to their unique ability of controlling a broad range of agriculturally important insects. These Gram-negative, bioluminescent bacteria reside in the gut of their entomopathogenic nematode host (Heterorhabditis spp.), where they have forged a symbiotic relationship. The infective juveniles of Heterorhabditis spp. are capable of invading soil-dwelling larvae and releasing the Photorhabdus spp. The bacterial symbiont rapidly multiplies and promotes nematode development by inducing insect death. Together, Photorhabdus and its nematode host, have great potential as a bio-pesticide.