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Mycovorax composti gen. nov., sp. nov., a member of the family Chitinophagaceae isolated from button mushroom compost

Summary

Scientists have discovered a new type of bacteria living in button mushroom compost called Mycovorax composti. This bacterium is found in the compost during a special preparation phase and helps break down tough plant materials and fungal structures. The bacteria thrive at warm temperatures (around 45°C) and play an important role in creating a healthy environment for growing button mushrooms. This discovery helps us better understand the microbial communities that make mushroom farming possible.

Background

Mushroom compost is a highly selective substrate used to support the growth of button mushrooms (Agaricus bisporus). During the conditioning phase of composting, significant carbohydrate degradation occurs and the microbial community undergoes dynamic changes. Members of the family Chitinophagaceae have been identified as abundant taxa during phase II compost conditioning.

Objective

To characterize two novel bacterial strains isolated from mature button mushroom compost in Australia and determine their taxonomic classification within the Chitinophagaceae family. The study aimed to identify the ecological role of these bacteria in the mushroom composting environment.

Results

Strains C216T and M2295 were gram-stain-negative, aerobic, non-motile rods with optimal growth at 45°C and pH 7.25. The C216T genome was 3,342,126 bp with 40.5 mol% G+C content and contained genes for chitinolytic and hemi-cellulolytic functions. Phylogenetic analysis demonstrated these strains form a distinct lineage separate from Niabella and Terrimonas genera with ANI values of 69.69% to the closest relative.

Conclusion

Strains C216T and M2295 represent a novel genus and species within family Chitinophagaceae, for which the name Mycovorax composti is proposed. The type strain is C216T (=DSM 114558T =LMG 32998T). These bacteria play an important ecological role in mushroom compost by degrading hemicelluloses and fungal mycelium.
  • Published in:International Journal of Systematic and Evolutionary Microbiology,
  • Study Type:Original Research - Bacterial Taxonomy and Characterization,
  • Source: 10.1099/ijsem.0.006496, PMID: 39190453
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