Abstract:The rare rod-shaped Gordonia was discovered by Tsukamura in 1971. A total of 41 valid species have been isolated and purified, which are widely distributed in mangrove rhizosphere, oil wells, hydrocarbon-contaminated soil, wastewater, and diseased humans. Owing to the functions of biotransformation, biodegradation, and active substance synthesis, Gordonia has great potential for drug development and environmental remediation. This study reviews the establishment, taxonomic characteristics, bioactive substances, and biodegradation function of Gordonia, which is expected to lay a foundation for the high-quality development of the resources of Gordonia.