16S rRNA Phylogenetic Investigation of the Candidate Division “ Korarchaeota

Abstract
The environmental distribution and phylogeny of “ Korarchaeota ,” a proposed ancient archaeal division, was investigated by using the 16S rRNA gene framework. Korarchaeota -specific primers were designed based on previously published sequences and used to screen a variety of environments. Korarchaeota 16S rRNA genes were amplified exclusively from high temperature Yellowstone National Park hot springs and a 9°N East Pacific Rise deep-sea hydrothermal vent. Phylogenetic analyses of these and all available sequences suggest that Korarchaeota exhibit a high level of endemicity.