Sval1 is a group of clone sequences most closely related to Desulfosarcina variabilis. These sequences are affiliated with the Desulfosarcina-Desulfococcus group of sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) in marine Arctic sediments [1]. In this context, Sval1-related SRB are part of the overall SRB community which is important for the sulfur cycle in these ecosystems.

In the marine Arctic sediment (Smeerenburgfjorden, Svalbard), the Sval1-affiliated SRB were dominant, accounting for up to 54.8% of the total SRB detected. The SRB community structure was characterized using fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) and rRNA slot blot hybridization. The rRNA contents of Desulfosarcina-Desulfococcus cells (including those related to Sval1) were highest near the sediment surface, indicating maximal metabolic activity there, and cellular sulfate reduction rates were also highest in the surface layer [1].

In conclusion, Sval1-related sulfate-reducing bacteria play a significant role in the metabolism and community structure of SRB in marine Arctic sediments. Understanding their function helps in comprehending the sulfur-cycling processes in these cold-water ecosystems.

References:

1. Ravenschlag, K, Sahm, K, Knoblauch, C, Jørgensen, B B, Amann, R. . Community structure, cellular rRNA content, and activity of sulfate-reducing bacteria in marine arctic sediments. In Applied and environmental microbiology, 66, 3592-602. doi:. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10919825/