Genome Sequence and Characterization of Coliphage vB_Eco_SLUR29.

Bacteriophages that infect are relatively easily isolated, with >600 coliphage genomes sequenced to date. Despite this there is still much to be discovered about the diversity of coliphage genomes. Within this study, we isolated a coliphage from cattle slurry collected from a farm in rural England. Transmission electron microscopy identified the phage as member of the family. Phylogenetic analysis and comparative genomics further placed it within the subfamily and forms part of a new genus. Characterization of the lytic properties of vB_Eco_SLUR29 reveals that it is rapidly able to lyse its host when infected at high multiplicity of infection, but not at low multiplicity of infection.