An annotated chromosome-scale reference genome for Eastern black-eared wheatear (Oenanthe melanoleuca)

Area of Science:

• Genomics
• Evolutionary Biology
• Ornithology

Background:

• Wheatears (genus Oenanthe) exhibit significant convergent evolution and hybridization.
• Understanding the genetic underpinnings of their diversification is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To generate and annotate a high-quality chromosome-scale genome assembly for the Eastern black-eared wheatear (Oenanthe melanoleuca).
• To provide essential genomic resources for studying adaptation and speciation in Oenanthe.

Main Methods:

• Generated a long-read-based male nuclear genome assembly.
• Annotated the genome for protein-coding genes and mRNAs.
• Assessed genome contiguity and completeness using established metrics (N50, BUSCO).

Main Results:

• A 1.04 Gb chromosome-scale assembly of the Eastern black-eared wheatear genome was produced.
• The assembly achieved high contiguity (scaffold N50, 70 Mb) and chromosome-level completeness (96%).
• The genome was annotated with 18,143 protein-coding genes and 31,333 mRNAs, with high BUSCO completeness (98.0%).

Conclusions:

• The annotated chromosome-scale genome assembly of O. melanoleuca is a vital resource.
• It will advance research into the genomics of adaptation and speciation in wheatears.
• This resource supports investigations into phenotypic diversification in this passerine genus.