Kosakonia


Kosakonia is a genus of Gram-negative bacteria in the family Enterobacteriaceae. Members of this genus are rod-shaped, motile, and typically associated with plants. They are often isolated as endophytes or rhizosphere bacteria and have shown potential for plant growth promotion and biological [nitrogen fixation|nitrogen fixation].

Taxonomy and etymology

Kosakonia was established in 2013 as part of a reclassification of species formerly placed in the genus Enterobacter. The genus is named in honor of microbiologist Yoshimasa Kosako. Phylogenetic analyses based on multilocus sequence analysis led to the creation of this distinct genus within the Gammaproteobacteria.

Description

Members of Kosakonia are facultative anaerobic, rod-shaped organisms. They are motile by means of peritrichous flagella and typically produce smooth, convex colonies on nutrient-rich agar. Kosakonia species are oxidase-negative and catalase-positive, and ferment a variety of sugars.

Ecology and significance

Kosakonia species are frequently found in association with agricultural crops, including rice and maize. They can live as endophytes within plant tissues or as rhizobacteria in the surrounding soil. Their ecological roles may include biocontrol,plant growth promotion, and [nutrient cycling. Some strains have been shown to fix atmospheric nitrogen and produce phytohormones such as indole-3-acetic acid, contributing to improved plant health and yield.

Species

Recognized species within the genus Kosakonia include:Kosakonia arachidisKosakonia cowaniiKosakonia oryzaeKosakonia radicincitansKosakonia sacchariKosakonia pseudosacchari