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GEBA-RNB

Motivation

Root Nodulating Bacteria (RNB) are soil inhabiting bacteria that form symbioses with legumes after infection of root hairs. The GEBA-RNB initiative at the JGI aims to sequence 100 RNB strains isolated from various locations around the world. This project will support the systematic sequence-based studies and understanding of the biogeographical effects on species evolution as well as the mechanisms of symbiotic nitrogen fixation (SNF) by RNB. The latter is a significant asset for world agricultural productivity, farming economy and environmental sustainability. SNF reduces energy consumption required to produce nitrogenous fertilizer, saving $US 6.8 billion per year. SNF significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions compared to intensive agriculture practice using artificial N-input. SNF benefits the environment (reduces dry-land salinity, increases soil fertility, and prevents waterway eutrophication). Root endosymbioses promote carbon sequestration. Shared genetic mechanisms between fungal and bacterial root endosymbioses exist and a detailed understanding of endosymbionts will be beneficial to drive bioenergy development from trees. The GEBA-RNB project is based on collaboration between JGI and an international consortium from 15 countries coordinated by Wayne Reeve from Murdoch University, Australia.

PIs: Nikos Kyrpidis, JGI; Wayne Reeve, University of Perth, Australia