Abstract
Polyphasic characterization of strain DSM 9128, described as Pseudomonas azelaica by Janota-Bassalik et al. [Acta Microbiol Pol B 3, 143153 (1971)], and four biochemically similar isolates was performed with the aim of validly publishing the name Pseudomonas azelaica. Based on 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis, DNADNA hybridization, fatty acid patterns and extensive biochemical testing, it was concluded that DSM 9128, two further strains and the type strains of Pseudomonas nitroreducens and Pseudomonas multiresinivorans form a highly related cluster. However, DNADNA binding did not conclusively resolve whether these strains should be regarded as members of one species. Based on results gained with the above-mentioned methods, two other isolates were assigned to the species Pseudomonas citronellolis, a species very close to P. nitroreducens. Based on genetic and biochemical similarities, it is suggested that Pseudomonas multiresinivorans should be considered as a later heterotypic synonym of Pseudomonas nitroreducens. The species descriptions of P. nitroreducens and P. citronellolis are emended.