**4. Other biodegradative reactions associated with** *Synechocystis*

The genome sequences of a number of *Synechocystis* strains have now been determined but there appears to be few genes associated with biodegradation in this organism. As the organism utilises a phototrophic metabolism, it appears to lacks transport systems for organic materials in general as it synthesises most of what it needs. Interrogation of the KEGG database [80] for metabolic activities associated with *Synechocystis* has revealed that the organism does not possess metabolic pathways to degrade organic pollutants. This may not be a general feature of all *Synechocystis* genera as there have been reports that some species may possess degradative abilities. *Synechocystis aquatilis* has been reported to degrade 85% of n-octadecane and 90% of pristine added to growth medium [81]. However other than this strain, which indeed may be unique, there appears to be limited metabolic degradative capability within the genus, particularly with respect to organic compounds.
