First Draft genome sequence of strain MF0224, representing an unclassified Fusobacterium-related lineage isolated from coastal sediments of Puducherry, India.

This article presents the draft genome sequence of strain MF0224, an anaerobic bacterium representing an unclassified Fusobacterium-related lineage isolated from a coastal sediment sample collected in Puducherry, India. Whole-genome sequencing was performed using the Illumina paired-end sequencing platform and assembled into a draft genome of 2.02 Mb comprising 26 contigs with a genomic DNA G+C content of 28.19%. Genome annotation predicted 1889 coding sequences, 47 tRNA genes, and multiple genes associated with anaerobic carbon metabolism, acetate production, sulfur metabolism, volatile fatty acid metabolism, and carbohydrate-active enzymes. Genome quality assessment indicated high completeness with low contamination. Comparative genomic analysis using TYGS identified the strain as a potential novel species within the genus Fusobacterium, supported by low digital DNA-DNA hybridization (dDDH) values (∼20%) relative to currently described species. Average amino acid identity (AAI; 68.9%) supported its placement within the genus Fusobacterium while indicating substantial genomic divergence. Comparative genomic analysis also determined a percentage of conserved proteins (POCP) value of 65.9%, providing additional genomic characterization of strain MF0224. Phylogenetic analyses based on 16S rRNA gene sequences and whole-genome phylogeny consistently positioned strain MF0224 within the Fusobacterium-associated clade. The genome provides a valuable resource for investigating anaerobic carbon metabolism, acetate biosynthesis, sulfur-associated pathways, and the ecological adaptation of Fusobacterium-related bacteria in coastal sediment ecosystems.