A reference genome assembly for the continentally distributed ring-necked snake, Diadophis punctatus

Area of Science:

• Genomics
• Herpetology
• Evolutionary Biology

Background:

• Colubridae snakes represent 75% of global diversity but are poorly understood.
• Dipsadinae subfamily, including ring-necked snakes (Diadophis punctatus), is speciose and diverse.
• Diadophis punctatus exhibits significant variation, making it ideal for evolutionary studies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To generate a high-quality reference genome assembly for the San Diego ring-necked snake (Diadophis punctatus similis).
• To provide a foundational resource for future research on ring-necked snake genetics, evolution, and conservation.

Main Methods:

• Whole-genome sequencing and assembly.
• Utilized the California Conservation Genomics Project framework.
• Bioinformatic analysis including scaffold and contig metrics, and BUSCO completeness.

Main Results:

• A new reference genome assembly for Diadophis punctatus similis was successfully generated.
• The assembly consists of 444 scaffolds, spans 1,783 Mb, with a scaffold N50 of 83 Mb.
• High contiguity and completeness (BUSCO score of 94.5%) were achieved.

Conclusions:

• The new reference genome is a significant advancement for ring-necked snake research.
• This resource will facilitate studies on the taxonomy, conservation, and evolutionary trajectory of Diadophis punctatus.
• It supports ongoing efforts within the California Conservation Genomics Project.