Complete genome sequencing of Bacillus subtilis (CWTS 5), a siderophore-producing bacterium triggers antagonistic potential against Ralstonia solanacearum.

This article focuses on the antagonistic potential of the siderophore-producing bacterium *Bacillus subtilis* strain CWTS 5 against *Ralstonia solanacearum*, a phytopathogen causing bacterial wilt in tomato (*Solanum lycopersicum* L.). The study demonstrates that *B. subtilis* CWTS 5 produces catecholate-type siderophores and multiple secondary metabolites with antibacterial and antifungal activities, identified via FTIR and LC-MS analyses. Whole genome sequencing revealed gene clusters responsible for siderophore biosynthesis, antibiotic production, and stress tolerance, supporting its biocontrol capabilities. Greenhouse experiments showed that both the bacterium and its siderophore extracts significantly reduced disease severity and enhanced tomato plant growth, indicating its potential as a sustainable biocontrol agent and plant growth promoter for managing bacterial wilt.