The genetic toolbox for Acidovorax temperans

Environmental isolates belonging to the genus Acidovorax play a crucial role in degrading a wide range of pollutants. Studies on Acidovorax are currently limited for many species due to the lack of genetic tools. Here, we described the use of the replicon from a small, cryptic plasmid indigenous to Acidovorx temperans strain CB2, to generate stably maintained shuttle vectors. In addition, we have developed a scarless gene knockout technique, as well as establishing green fluorescent protein (GFP) reporter and complementation systems. Taken collectively, these tools will improve genetic manipulations in the genus Acidovorax. •We found a small, cryptic plasmid indigenous to Acidovorax temperans CB2 strain.•A set of shuttle vectors was constructed.•We developed a scarless gene knockout technique based on homologous recombination.•A gfp reporter system was established.•The reported tools will improve genetic studies in the genus Acidovorax.