The biotechnological potential of : a bird's eye view.

The genus comprises Gram-negative bacilli widely distributed in aquatic habitats that can also be found in the terrestrial environment and in close association with humans and animals. spp. are particularly versatile bacteria, with high genomic plasticity and notable capacity to adapt to different environments and extreme conditions. On account of being mostly associated with their pathogenic potential, research on the biotechnological potentialities of spp. is considerably scarce when compared to other bacterial groups. Nonetheless, studies over the years have been hinting at several interesting hidden potentialities in this bacterial group, especially with the recent advances in whole-genome sequencing, unveiling spp. as interesting candidates for the discovery of novel industrial biocatalysts, bioremediation strategies, and biopolyester production. In this context, the present study aims to provide an overview of the main biotechnological applications reported in the genus and provide new insights into the further exploration of these frequently overlooked, yet fascinating, bacteria.