Dyella terrae

Updated: 2026-09-16

Overview

Dyella terrae is a bacterial species first described in 2007 after isolation from the gut of Formosan subterranean termites (Odontotermes formosanus). It belongs to the family Rhodanobacteraceae within the class Gammaproteobacteria. The bacterium demonstrates adaptability to the termite gut environment, suggesting symbiotic relationships or niche-specific metabolic capabilities. Genomic studies indicate Dyella terrae possesses genes encoding enzymes that may contribute to lignocellulose degradation, making it of interest for biotechnology applications. Its type strain is N5T (=BCRC 17588T =KCTC 12855T), deposited in several international culture collections.

Key Features

Morphologically, Dyella terrae presents as straight rods (0.5-0.7 μm × 1.5-2.5 μm) with single polar flagella for motility. Colonies appear smooth, circular, and pale yellow on standard agar media. Biochemically, it tests positive for catalase and oxidase while negative for nitrate reduction and indole production. The bacterium grows optimally at 30°C and pH 6.0-7.0, showing sensitivity to several antibiotics including ampicillin and streptomycin. Its fatty acid profile is dominated by C16:0, C17:0 cyclo, and C18:1ω7c, which are characteristic markers for identification purposes.

Application Areas

In environmental biotechnology, Dyella terrae is investigated for its potential in degrading aromatic compounds and plant biomass. Research suggests it may participate in the termite gut's lignocellulose digestion consortium, though its exact role requires further study. Industrial applications focus on its enzymatic systems, particularly for waste treatment processes. Some studies explore its use in bioaugmentation strategies for contaminated soil remediation, leveraging its native metabolic pathways for pollutant breakdown.

Precautions

While Dyella terrae is not classified as a human pathogen, standard microbiological safety protocols should be followed during handling. Biosafety level 1 containment is sufficient, but gloves and lab coats are recommended to prevent contamination. Long-term preservation requires cryopreservation at -80°C in glycerol stocks. For laboratory cultivation, R2A agar or nutrient agar supplemented with termite gut extract (1-2%) enhances growth. Regular subculturing every 4-6 weeks maintains viability on solid media.

B2B Procurement Guide

Research-grade Dyella terrae strains are available through specialized culture collections like DSMZ (Germany) or KCTC (Korea). Typical packaging includes freeze-dried pellets or agar stabs, with certificates of analysis confirming strain authenticity. For bulk procurement, negotiate with suppliers regarding viability guarantees (typically >90% viable cells) and purity certifications. Lead times may vary from 2-6 weeks depending on cultivation and quality control requirements. Some CROs offer custom cultivation in bioreactors for large-scale applications.