Complete Genome Sequence of Cellulomonas sp. JZ18, a Root Endophytic Bacterium Isolated from the Perennial Desert Tussock-Grass Panicum turgidum

Cellulomonas sp. JZ18 is a gram-positive, rod shaped bacterium that was previously isolated from the root endosphere of the perennial desert tussock-grass Panicum turgidum. Genome coverage of PacBio sequencing was approximately 199X. Genome assembly generated a single chromosome of 7,421,843 base pairs with a guanine-cytosine (GC) content of 75.60% with 3240 protein coding sequences, 361 pseudo genes, three ribosomal RNA operons, three non-coding RNAs and 45 transfer RNAs. Comparison of JZ18's genome with type strains from the same genus, using digital DNA-DNA hybridization and average nucleotide identity calculations, revealed that JZ18 might potentially belong to a new species. Functional analysis revealed the presence of genes that may complement previously observed biochemical and plant phenotypes. Furthermore, the presence of a number of enzymes could be of potential use in industrial processes as biocatalysts. Genome sequencing and analysis, coupled with comparative genomics, of endophytic bacteria for their potential plant growth promoting activities under different soil conditions will accelerate the knowledge and applications of biostimulants in sustainable agriculture.