Whole Genome Analysis of the Plant-Associated Bacterial Strain GMI12077 to Investigate Its Plant Growth-Enhancing Properties

The use of PGPB represents a promising and environmentally friendly strategy to enhance stress tolerance in economically important crops. In this study, we conducted a whole-genome analysis of the plant-associated bacterial strain GMI12077 to identify genes potentially involved in plant growth promotion and stress resistance key traits for improving crop resilience and food security. Genomic and phylogenomic analyses, including digital DNA–DNA hybridization (dDDH) and genome BLAST distance phylogeny (GBDP), confirmed that strain GMI12077 belongs to the species Pseudomonas fortuita. Functional annotation revealed a wide array of genes associated with plant colonization, nutrient competition, and the biosynthesis of growth-enhancing molecules such as ACC deaminase, IAA, and spermidine. In addition, the genome encodes several osmoprotective compounds (e.g., trehalose and glycine betaine) and genes involved in osmosensing, osmoregulation, and general adaptation to abiotic stress. The presence of multiple genes linked to enzymatic antioxidant pathways suggests a potential role in mitigating ROS overproduction under stress conditions. Altogether, the genomic features of P. fortuita GMI12077 support its potential as a promising candidate for future development as a bioinoculant in sustainable agriculture