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Abstract
Shipworms (Teredinidae) rely on gill-associated bacterial endosymbionts for wood digestion and nitrogen fixation. This study investigates iron acquisition strategies in these symbionts, focusing on siderophore production. Teredinibacter turnerae was found to synthesize a novel catecholate siderophore, turnerbactin, and its biosynthetic pathway was characterized. Mass spectrometry and genomic analyses revealed widespread siderophore potential among symbionts, predominantly catecholate types. Functional assays indicate siderophores may mediate competitive interactions rather than cooperative iron acquisition within the symbiotic community. These findings highlight siderophores as key factors in symbiont ecology and suggest roles in nutrient acquisition and microbial dynamics.