Whole genome sequencing of bacteria isolated from marine sponge

Sponges (Porifera) harbour a dense population of microorganisms forming a holobiome. Studying these holobiomes has lead to the discovery of many novel species, metabolic process and natural products. Despite the richness of these natural resources the microbiome of many sponges remain enigmatic. Bacteria from the model calcareous sponge, Sycon capricorn, were isolated, cultured and genomic DNA extracted. Whole genome sequencing, using both long and short read platforms, assembled complete genomes. The completeness of these assemblies and the elucidation of natural plasmids exemplifies the utility of hybrid assemblies. Mining these genome assemblies for metabolic pathways begins to define the role of these microorganisms in the sponge holobiome.