Abstract: The rapid development of sequencing technology has greatly advanced research on microbial genomics. Although the initiation of polar microorganism genome sequencing was relatively late, it has become an important research area in the field of polar microbiology. The genetic resources of polar microorganisms hold strategic significance and social benefits. However, in-depth investigations of polar microbial genomes and genetic resources are quite limited, and the real power of genome sequencing has not been fully utilized. In this review, we summarize the current progress and research directions of polar microbial genomics, and analyze the shortcomings of current research and potential of genome mining. Accordingly, we propose key research directions requiring particular attention and breakthroughs. Overall, enhancing the mining of genetic resources from polar microorganisms provides more possibilities for future biotechnology.

Key words: polar microorganisms, genome, genetic resources, genomic mining