Pseudoscardovia

Pseudoscardovia is a genus of Gram-positive, anaerobic, non-motile bacteria within the family Bifidobacteriaceae. The genus was first described following the isolation of strains from the gastrointestinal tract of wild pigs in the Czech Republic. The name derives from the Greek pseudes and the genus Scardovia, reflecting its phylogenetic distinction from closely related taxa.

Taxonomy and classification

The genus Pseudoscardovia was established based on polyphasic taxonomic analyses, including 16S rRNA gene sequencing, DNA–DNA hybridization, and phenotypic characterization. These studies demonstrated that the isolates formed a distinct lineage within the family Bifidobacteriaceae, separate from other genera such as Bifidobacterium and Scardovia.
Currently, the genus comprises two validly published species:Pseudoscardovia suis — the type species

''Pseudoscardovia radai''

Morphology and physiology

Members of the genus Pseudoscardovia are characterized by the following features:

Cell morphology: Gram-positive, non-spore-forming, non-motile rods
Oxygen requirement: Strictly anaerobic
Temperature range: Mesophilic, with optimal growth at 37 °C
Metabolism: Fermentative, producing lactic acid as a major end product

These bacteria exhibit unique cell wall compositions and carbohydrate fermentation profiles that distinguish them from other members of the Bifidobacteriaceae family.

Species

''Pseudoscardovia suis''

Pseudoscardovia suis is the type species of the genus. It was isolated from the digestive tract of wild pigs in the Central Bohemian Region, Czech Republic. The type strain is DPTE4.

''Pseudoscardovia radai''

Pseudoscardovia radai was also isolated from the digestive tract of wild pigs in the same region. The type strain is DPVI-TET3.

Ecology

Species of Pseudoscardovia have been isolated from the gastrointestinal tracts of wild pigs, suggesting a role in the gut microbiota of these animals. Pseudoscardovia spp., particularly Pseudoscardovia radai, have also been found to be more abundant in the gastrointestinal microbiota of pigs raised outdoors compared to those raised indoors. This supports their association with outdoor or wild suid environments.