An insight into the ecology, diversity and adaptations of Gordonia species

The bacterial genus Gordonia encompasses a variety of versatile species that have been isolated from a multitude of environments. Gordonia was described as a genus about 20 years ago, and to date, 39 different species have been identified. Gordonia is recognized for symbiotic associations with multiple hosts, including aquatic (marine and fresh water) biological forms and terrestrial invertebrates. Some Gordonia species isolated from clinical specimens are known to be opportunistic human pathogens causing secondary infections in immunocompromised and immunosuppressive individuals. They are also predominant in mangrove ecosystems and terrestrial sites. Members of the genus Gordonia are ecologically adaptable and show marked variations in their properties and products. They generate diverse bioactive compounds and produce a variety of extracellular enzymes. In addition, production of surface active compounds and carotenoid pigments allows this group of microorganisms to grow under different conditions. Several isolates from water and soil have been implicated in bioremediation of different environments and plant associated species have been explored for agricultural applications. This review highlights the prevalence of the members of this versatile genus in diverse environments, details its associations with living forms, summarizes the biotechnologically relevant products that can be obtained and discusses the salient genomic features that allow this Actinomycete to survive in different ecological niches.