Targeted degradation of carotenoids and enhanced aroma production in tobacco by a novel Paenibacillus oceanisediminis CJ-2

• A novel Paenibacillus oceanisediminis CJ-2 with high carotenoid-degrading activity was isolated from tobacco aging. • Strain CJ-2 exhibited superior degradation efficiency (34.6%) and enzyme activity (262.5 U mL⁻ 1 ). • Fermentation conditions for maximal enzyme production were optimized via Response Surface Methodology. • Whole-genome sequencing identified key carotenoid catabolism genes ( CRTZ , CRTX , CCD7 ). • CJ-2 inoculation increased carotenoid-derived volatiles by 60% and total flavor compounds by 2.67-fold. Sensory evaluation demonstrated that CJ-2 fermentation significantly improved tobacco quality, particularly in aroma quantity, smoothness, and aftertaste.