Whole-Genome Profiling of Endophytic Strain B.L.Ns.14 from Reveals Potential for Agricultural Bioenhancement.

Endophytic microbes in medicinal plants often possess beneficial traits for plant health. This study focuses on the bacterial endophyte strain B.L.Ns.14, isolated from leaves, which demonstrated multiple plant growth-promoting properties. In vitro tests showed that B.L.Ns.14 supports plant growth, colonization, and tolerance to abiotic stress. The strain also exhibited antifungal activity against phytopathogens such as , , , and f. sp. . Whole-genome analysis, supported by ANI and dDDH values, identified B.L.Ns.14 as . Genome mining revealed 128 active carbohydrate enzymes (Cazymes) related to endophytism and biocontrol functions, along with genes involved in phosphate solubilization, siderophore and IAA production, biofilm formation, and motility. Furthermore, genes for osmolyte metabolism, Na+/H+ antiporters, and stress response proteins were also identified. The genome harbors 12 secondary metabolite biosynthetic gene clusters, including those for surfactin, plipastatin mojavensin, rhizocticin A, and bacilysin, known for their antagonistic effects against fungi. Additionally, B.L.Ns.14 promoted growth under both normal and saline conditions, and enhanced growth via seed biopriming and root irrigation. These findings suggest that B.L.Ns.14 holds potential as a biocontrol and plant productivity agent, warranting further field testing.