Compounds affecting predation by and viability of predatory bacteria

Abstract

Bdellovibrio-and-like organisms (BALOs) are a small group of bacteria that actively predate on other Gram-negative bacterial species. Although viewed mostly in a positive light, such as their potential use as living antibiotics to reduce pathogenic strain populations, several studies have also highlighted the need to control their activities, such as in the production of biodiesel. Consequently, this mini-review discusses research being conducted to characterize compounds and environmental settings that influence predation rates and the mechanisms by which they accomplish this, with a heavy emphasis on studies published within the last decade.Key points• This review discusses bacterial predators and factors impacting their activities. • Emphasis is on recent articles, particularly those discussing prey metabolites. • The implications on possible applications of bacterial predators are discussed.

Keywords: Bdellovibrio bacteriovorus; Environment; Predatory bacteria; Prey metabolites.