Draft genome sequence of Priestia megaterium MHES4, a biofertilizer candidate isolated from tomato rhizosphere in Bangladesh

OBJECTIVE: The genus Priestia has recently gained attention for its plant growth-promoting potential. To examine the genomic traits and biosafety profile for potential field application as a native, climate-smart bioinoculant, we sequenced, assembled and annotated the genome of Priestia megaterium strain MHES4, isolated from the rhizosphere of tomato plant grown in drought-prone ecosystem of Rajshahi, Bangladesh. DATA DESCRIPTION: of 446,003 bp and 37.9% G + C content. The mean sequencing depth was 127.58×, with 100% breadth of coverage. Genome completeness assessed was 97.43% with 3.5% contamination, confirming high assembly quality. In total, 5,484 protein-coding genes were annotated. Additionally, 5,445 protein-coding sequences, 28 tRNAs, and 5 rRNAs were identified. Functional analysis identified gene clusters involved in the synthesis of secondary metabolites, such as phytoene synthase and alpha-amylase, and a Type I CRISPR-Cas system. Biosafety assessment using in silico tools detected no virulence factors or transmissible antibiotic resistance genes, indicating its potential safe use in agriculture. Overall, this genomic resource provides valuable insights into the genetic potential of P. megaterium MHES4 for nutrient cycling and adaptation to the rhizosphere environment.