Exploring the bacterial diversity and composition with special emphasis on pathogens in ship ballast water and sediments using full-length 16S rRNA gene sequencing

Accurate detecting bacterial communities in ballast water and sediments supports risk management. This study uses full-length 16S rRNA gene sequencing to investigate the bacterial communities in ballast water and sediments, focusing on detecting pathogens. The results indicate that full-length sequencing more accurately reveals the species diversity. There is a significant difference (P < 0.05) in bacterial communities between ballast water and sediments, despite both being dominated by the Proteobacteria phylum. Thirty human and fish pathogens were identified by full-length sequencing, yet only five pathogens were detected from V3-V4 sequencing. Notably, emerging pathogens such as Citrobacter freundii and Nocardia nova are detected in samples, which are harmful to aquaculture and human health. Several opportunistic pathogens were also identified. In summary, this study provides important insights into the bacterial communities in ballast water and sediments, highlighting the need for strict management.

Automated summary

Accurate detection of bacterial communities in ballast water and sediments is crucial for risk management. This study utilized full-length 16S rRNA gene sequencing to investigate the bacterial communities, particularly focusing on identifying pathogens. The findings highlighted the significance of full-length sequencing in providing more accurate species diversity information. It was observed that there is a significant difference in bacterial communities between ballast water and sediments, despite both being dominated by the Proteobacteria phylum. Full-length sequencing identified 30 human and fish pathogens, whereas only five pathogens were detected through V3-V4 sequencing. Notably, emerging pathogens such as Citrobacter freundii and Nocardia nova, which are harmful to aquaculture and human health, were detected in the samples. In addition, several opportunistic pathogens were also identified. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into the bacterial communities in ballast water and sediments, emphasizing the necessity for rigorous management.