Nonlabens ulvanivorans Genome sequencing and assembly. Nonlabens ulvanivorans

Ulvales (Chlorophyta) are worldwide distributed green seaweeds. Species of the genus Ulva are the main contributors to green tides, which have become an increasing economic and environmental problem. Although the majority of biomass washed ashore is of little use, the algae’s dry weight is constituted of up to 54% carbohydrates. The main carbohydrate portion is attributed to the sulfated polysaccharide, ulvan, embedded in the algal cell wall. Ulvan composition and structure have been studied in depth for its varied polymeric properties and biological activities. This first draft genome sequence of an ulvan degrading bacterium provides a major step towards the unveiling of the enzymes that participate in Ulva degradation and Ulvales cell wall polysaccharide utilization. Furthermore, it may allow for better characterization and even modification of these untapped polysaccharides in the near future.