This study provides new insights into the diversity, genomic architecture, and lytic potential of Edwardsiella-infecting phages isolated from Vietnamese aquaculture environments.
This study provides new insights into the diversity, genomic architecture, and lytic potential of Edwardsiella-infecting phages isolated from Vietnamese aquaculture environments. Among them, phage vB_EtA_DT116P2 demonstrated outstanding lytic efficacy against multiple E. tarda strains, as reflected by its high virulence index and strong inhibitory effects in vitro. Genome annotation confirmed that DT116P2 is a strictly lytic phage, devoid of genes associated with lysogeny, virulence, or antibiotic resistance. Comparative and phylogenetic analyses revealed that DT116P2 shares a close evolutionary relationship with Edwardsiella phage WCT72P1,  forming a distinct lineage within the family Autosignataviridae.