Genomic analysis of a lignocellulose degrading strain from the underexplored genus Meridianimaribacter

The genus Meridianimaribacter is one of the least-studied genera within Cytophaga-Flavobacteria. To date, no genomic analysis of Meridianimaribacter has been reported. In this study, Meridianimaribacter sp. strain CL38, a lignocellulose degrading halophile was isolated from mangrove soil. The genome of strain CL38 was sequenced and analyzed. The assembled genome contains 17 contigs with 3.33 Mbp, a GC content of 33.13% and a total of 2982 genes predicted. Lignocellulose degrading enzymes such as cellulases (GH3, 5, 9, 16, 74 and 144), xylanases (GH43 and CE4) and mannanases (GH5, 26, 27 and 130) are encoded in the genome. Furthermore, strain CL38 demonstrated its ability to decompose empty fruit bunch, a lignocellulosic waste residue arising from palm oil industry. The genome information coupled with experimental studies confirmed the ability of strain CL38 to degrade lignocellulosic biomass. Therefore, Meridianimaribacter sp. strain CL38, with its halotolerance, could be useful for seawater based lignocellulosic biorefining.