show Abstracthide AbstractThe Genomic Encyclopedia of Bacteria and Archaea (GEBA) initiative aims to sequence genomes to fill phylogenetic gaps. GEBA-RNB focuses on Root Nodulating Bacteria, which form symbioses with legumes after infection of root hairs. It aims to sequence 100 RNB strains from world-wide locations, to study bio-geographical effects on species evolution and mechanisms of symbiotic nitrogen fixation (SNF). SNF enhances the environmental sustainability of agriculture by increasing soil fertility and productivity, thus reducing the need for nitrogenous fertilizer.