From Lab Contaminant to Agricultural Ally: A Novel Bacterium Discovered

In the meticulous world of microbiology, laboratory contamination is usually a frustration, yet occasionally it yields a breakthrough. Scientists have characterised a potentially novel bacterial species, Paenibacillus sp. TAB_01, which was isolated as an unexpected visitor on cotton tissue culture plates. Rather than discarding the sample, the team utilised Oxford Nanopore technology to sequence its genome, uncovering a genetic blueprint comprising 7.46 Mb and over 7,300 genes.

To determine the identity of this organism, researchers compared it to its closest known relative, Paenibacillus rigui. The results were telling: digital DNA-DNA hybridisation—a computational method used to measure genomic similarity—revealed only a 22.2% match. This low level of similarity indicates that TAB_01 is likely a completely new species forming a separate lineage within its genus.

Most exciting for agricultural science is the bacterium's behaviour. Far from being a mere pest, TAB_01 exhibits strong plant growth-promoting traits. The study confirmed it produces significant amounts of ammonium and soluble inorganic phosphate, essential nutrients for vegetation. Additionally, it synthesises indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), a key plant hormone that regulates development. This turning of a laboratory accident into a scientific discovery highlights a promising new candidate for natural fertilisers.