A Gram-negative bacterium, designated strain AS-8, was isolated from an active sludge sample from a food plant in Japan. A phylogenetic study based on 16S rRNA gene sequences indicated that the isolate should be placed in the genus Paracoccus. Comparisons of its phenotypic and genotypic characteristics with other known species belonging to the genus Paracoccus suggested that strain AS-8 represents a new species in the genus. The name Paracoccus kawasakiensis is proposed for this species. Takayasu Tsuchida (personal communication)