The gyrfalcon (Falco rusticolus) genome

Area of Science:

• Genomics
• Conservation Biology
• Evolutionary Biology

Background:

• High-quality genome assemblies are foundational for ecological, evolutionary, and conservation research.
• The gyrfalcon (Falco rusticolus) genome was previously uncharacterized, limiting comparative genomics and conservation efforts.

Purpose of the Study:

• To generate a high-quality genome assembly for the gyrfalcon (Falco rusticolus).
• To provide a valuable genomic resource for conservation projects and comparative genomics studies.
• To facilitate research into the evolution, ecology, and conservation of birds.

Main Methods:

• Third-generation sequencing strategies and optical maps were employed for genome sequencing and assembly.
• Benchmarking Universal Single-Copy Orthologs (BUSCOs) were used to assess genome completeness.
• De novo searches for transposable elements (TEs) and gene annotation were performed using PacBio Iso-Seq and Illumina RNA-seq data.
• Comparative genomic analyses were conducted against related avian species.

Main Results:

• A highly contiguous and complete gyrfalcon genome assembly (1.193 Gbp) was produced, with 96.7% complete BUSCO genes.
• Transposable elements (TEs), particularly Long Interspersed Nuclear Elements (CR1), were identified, masking 7.61% of the genome.
• 19,602 putative genes were annotated, with 59.31% functionally characterized.
• Comparative analysis revealed significant genome rearrangements, including nine putative chromosome fusions compared to the chicken genome.

Conclusions:

• The generated gyrfalcon genome assembly is a high-quality resource for avian research.
• The annotation of genes and transposable elements enhances its utility for evolutionary and conservation studies.
• Comparative genomic insights highlight unique evolutionary trajectories in the gyrfalcon lineage.