Phosphorescence and Potential Antibiosis Secondary to Photorhabdus Luminescens Wound Contaminations at the Battle of Shiloh, Tennessee 1862

During the American Civil War, contemporary accounts describe a peculiar luminescence phenomenon associated with untreated injuries sustained by fallen troops after Battle of Shiloh (6-7 April 1862). While not experienced all soldiers, field surgeons observed that glow was somehow linked to reduced rates wound infection and better outcomes. Given wet springtime weather unsheltered overnight conditions injured, it is plausible some lacerations or punctures were incidentally infected microscopic contaminants, including common soil nematodes. One endemic group likely present on riverbank groundcover fam. Heterorhabditidae, symbiotic host Photorhabdus luminescens. Classified within Morganellaceae, this Gram-negative pathogen characterized its unusual life cycle. With particular relevance Shiloh, sequence includes blue-green phosphorescence phase accompanied release protein toxins having local antibiotic properties. Here, natural progression microbe from nematode symbiont lethal secondary insect parasite lodged in an unclean considered. life-cycle discussed as component Martin-Curtis Hypothesis (2001), new information fluorophore isolation recent genomic sequencing data. The campaign also placed context larger Western Theatre, noting engagement marked heaviest War casualty toll up point.