Whole Genome Sequencing Based Taxonomic Classification and Characterization of Putative Novel Bacteria Species Isolated from the Desert Habitats of Ma'an, Jordan

As a molecular method, the 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene is typically sequenced to identify and discriminate bacteria, but this is not always possible due to the high sequence homology of their 16S rRNA genes. In contrast to 16S rRNA gene sequencing, whole genome sequencing (WGS) offers a clear definition for bacterial classification. In a previous project funded by AHU, our team studied microbial diversity in desert habitats in Ma'an, Jordan. Based on 16s rRNA analysis, approximately 20 bacterial isolates were identified as potential new species. A comprehensive whole-genome-based classification and comparative phenotypic analysis will be extensively applied in this project to describe and identify the putative new bacteria species isolated from the studied habitats.