Xenorhabdus nematophila ATCC 19061

Xenorhabdus nematophila (strain ATCC 19061 / DSM 3370 / LMG 1036 / NCIB 9965 / AN6) is an insect pathogenic, facultatively anaerobic, non-spore forming Gram-negative bacterium isolated from the hemolymph of Galleria mellonella infected with Steinernema carpocapsae. X. nematophila possesses numerous peritrichous flagella mutualistically associated with the nematode S. carpocapsae and is only found inside infected hosts. The symbiotic association is essential for the survival of both nematode and its symbiotic bacteria. Free-living, juvenile S. carpocapsae enter insect larvae through the digestive tract. They penetrate the larvae body cavity and release X. nematophila into the hemolymph (blood). The bacteria multiply rapidly, killing the larvae, and providing suitable nutrient conditions for the growth and reproduction of S. carpocapsae. The nematode matures and reproduces. The new juveniles reassociate with X. nematophila and are released into the soil. This bacterium has great potential as a biological control agent for noxious insects in cryptic environments. It is therefore anticipated that with the tools and research knowledge presently available a bio-pesticide can be developed. (Adapted from PMID: 15909327). (EBI Integr8)