Xenorhabdus khoisanae strain:MCB Genome sequencing and assembly. Xenorhabdus khoisanae strain:MCB

Xenorhabdus khoisanae (strain MCB) is an entomopathogenic, gram-negative bacterium isolated from the haemolymph of Galleria mellonella larvae infected with Steinernema spp. The free-living stage of the entomopathogenic nematode, known as infective juveniles, can be found in the soil. These infective juveniles are able parasitize a wide range of insect larvae by gaining entry through their natural openings such as the mouth, anus or spiracles. Once inside the body cavity of the insect, the infective juveniles release its endosymbiotic bacteria, X. khoisanae into the haemolymph either through regurgitation of defecation. The bacteria begins to rapidly multiple and results in insect death through septicaemia. The bacteria as well as its facilitated breakdown of insect host tissues serve as a source of nutrients for the growth and development of the Steinernema spp. Once all nutrients have been depleted, a pellet of the bacteria is incorporated within the new juveniles' gut before the infective juveniles emerge into the surrounding soil. This bacterium, together with its nematode vector counterpart has great potential as a biological pest control agent.