Draft genome sequence of a chromium-resistant Bacillus altitudinis AK25 strain isolated from contaminated aquatic environment

Chromium [Cr(VI)] contamination is a persistent environmental hazard due to its high solubility, carcinogenicity, and resistance to detoxification. Bioremediation offers a sustainable alternative to conventional remediation. Bacillus altitudinis strain AK25, isolated from a polluted water source in Uttar Pradesh, India, demonstrated exceptional Cr(VI) tolerance. This study presents the draft genome sequence of strain AK25, with emphasis on genes associated with heavy metal resistance, stress adaptation, and ecological fitness. The genome of strain AK25 spans 3,691,282 bp with a GC content of 41.33%, assembled from Illumina paired-end reads (476.33× coverage). Annotation revealed 3,808 genes, including 3,699 protein-coding sequences and 76 RNA genes. Functional analysis identified chromate efflux transporters, arsenic and mercury-related gene. Genes linked to biofilm formation, chemotaxis, and motility further support its environmental adaptability. The phylogenetic tree constructed from 16S rRNA sequences positioned strain AK25 within the Bacillus altitudinis clade, while whole-genome based phylogenomic analyses (ANI and dDDH) confirmed its species-level identity. Gene analysis emphasizing its potential for bioremediation in metal-contaminated ecosystems.