Genome based reclassification of as a heterotypic synonym of .

species are widely studied due to their utility in bioremediation of sites contaminated with radioactive elements. In the present study, we re-evaluated the taxonomic placement of two species of the genus namely DY59 and ATCC 19172 based on whole genome analyses. The 16S rRNA gene analysis revealed a 99.58% sequence similarity between this species pair that is above the recommended threshold value for species delineation. These two species also clustered together in both the 16S rRNA gene and core genome based phylogenies depicting their close relatedness. Furthermore, more than 98% of genes were shared between s DY59 and ATCC 19172. Interestingly, DY59 and ATCC 19172 shared high genome similarity in different genomic indices. They displayed an average nucleotide identity value of 97.63%, an average amino acid identity value of 97% and a digital DNA-DNA hybridization value equal to 79.50%, all of which are well above the cut-off for species delineation. Altogether, based on these evidences, DY59 and ATCC 19172 constitute a single species. Hence, as per the priority of publication, we propose that Lee 2015 should be reclassified as a later heterotypic synonym of .