Characterization of a biofilm bacterium from a recirculation system for European lobster (Homarus gammarus)

The European lobster (Homarus gammarus) is often stored live in re-circulation systems. Previously bio-films and fouling has been reported to occur during storage of live aquatic animals. This investigation profiled a bacterium isolated from a bio-film observed on the carapace of live lobster and on the sub-water surfaces of the holding facility. Molecular analysis using a universal 16 s rRNA primer and subsequent BLAST search identified the Epsilonbacteria as an unidentified Arcobacter. The isolated Arcobacter showed an 87.8% match with the reference genome Arcobacter butzleri. The animals did not show any pathopyhsiological alterations as a result of the bio-film.