Petrotoga sp. DB-2 Genome sequencing
Iron is readily cycled between Fe(III) and Fe(II) states, solid and soluble forms by many microorganisms. Iron(III)-reducing bacteria, in particular, are known to play a key role in a wide variety of anaerobic environments. These bacteria use Fe(III) as an electron acceptor in respiration. Petroleum reservoirs are unique and often variable subsurface anaerobic environments. The presence of hydrocarbons and variable temperatures, pressures and salinities have major influences on the microbial ecology. While the presence of Fe(III)-reducing bacteria in petroleum reservoirs has been recognized for some time, there is still little known about their role and importance especially compared to other anaerobes like sulfate-reducers. The aim of this work is to understand the molecular mechanisms of Fe(III)-reducers in deep subsurface environments.