Abstract
This study investigated the survival mechanisms of bacteria in a hydrocarbon-enriched environment, focusing on factors such as osmotic stress, biofilm formation, and complex carbohydrate utilization. The whole genome of a bacterial isolate (AR19) capable of degrading benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P) was sequenced and analyzed. The draft genome size was 3.63 Mb, and the closest reference genome was identified as Bacillus altitudinis. The genome contained 3,777 coding genes. Noteworthy findings from the genome analysis included: (i) the involvement of biofilm and biosurfactant in B[a]P adsorption by AR19, (ii) the utilization of extradiol ring cleavage for B[a]P degradation, and (iii) the importance of osmotic stress protection in maintaining cell structure under hydrocarbon stress. The results of this study have potential implications for the development of bioremediation strategies using ex-situ and in-situ techniques.