Complete genome sequence of <i>Niallia</i> sp. SS-2023 isolated from oil-contaminated soil in Mosul city, Iraq

Oil contamination in soil poses a significant environmental challenge, affecting microbial communities and ecosystem functions. Certain bacterial species have evolved mechanisms to survive and even degrade hydrocarbons in such polluted environments. In this context, the genus Niallia has attracted scientific interest due to its potential in bioremediation. The current research was focused on characterizing and conducting genomic analysis of a novel strain of Niallia sp., accordingly labeled as Niallia sp. SS-2023, obtained from oil-polluted soil alongside electric generators in the Mosul Governorate. Isolates were diagnosed using conventional methods and biochemical tests. The 16S rRNA gene sequencing identification was followed by whole-genome sequencing and bioinformatics analysis. The genome contains 86 contigs, representing 3.78 million base pairs with a GC content of 39.2% and 3,852 protein-coding sequences supported by 60 tRNA genes. Rapid Annotation using Subsystem Technology (RAST) server analysis identified numerous genes involved in carbohydrate, amino acid, protein, and nucleoside metabolism. Genes linked to aromatic compound metabolism, such as SalA, FAHF, QuiB, and BenK, were found, indicating roles in the degradation of aromatic, anti-inflammatory for salicylate, hydroxylated and metabolic for gentisate, as well as carboxylated and preservative for benzoate. On the phylogenetic tree, Niallia sp. SS-2023 falls very close to Niallia circulans FDAARGOS_343 and Niallia Taxi M5HDSG1-1T, indicating a high degree of genetic similarity. From these molecular genomic data to phylogenetics, the information reassures that Niallia sp. SS-2023 is promising for application in bioremediation and bioproducts development.