The United States Department of Energy Joint Genome Institute (US DOE-JGI) recently announced its “latest portfolio” of genome sequencing targets for 2009, in a continuing effort to harness plant and microbial resources for bioenergy and environment applications. Of the 150 proposals received through its Community Sequencing Program (CSP), 44 have been included in the line-up. The sequencing projects include a diverse range of organisms which are “relevant to bioenergy, global carbon recycling and bioremediation”. Among the organisms involved in the sequencing projects are : (1) Loblolly pine (Pinus taeda): “the most commonly planted tree species in America” which (a) can efficiently sequester/ transform carbon dioxide into biomass, and (b) can be used as potential feedstock for cellulose ethanol, (2) a marine colony-forming microalga (Botryococcus braunii), which can produce hydrocarbons that can be used as an alternative biofuel, (3) white rot fungi (Phanerochaete chrysosporium, Pleurotus ostreatus): sequencing studies “will advance the understanding of  the complex oxidative mechanisms involved in lignocellulose conversions”. A complete list of projects can be accessed at the JGI website (URL above).