A chromosome-level genome assembly of skipjack tuna, Katsuwonus pelamis (Perciformes: Scombridae)

Skipjack tuna (Katsuwonus pelamis), a highly migratory pelagic species widely distributed in tropical and subtropical oceanic regions, has consistently ranked third in global fishery landings from 2015 to 2022 and holds substantial economic significance for the coastal fisheries of Pacific Rim countries. Integrating PacBio and Hi-C data, a chromosome-level assembly of its genome was accomplished. This assembly comprises 24 pseudo-chromosomes, yielding a genome size of 827.9 Mb with a scaffold N50 length of 32.7 Mb, indicative of a highly contiguous assembly. A BUSCO assessment ascertained the comprehensiveness of the genome at 98.7%, indicative of comprehensive genomic representation. A total of 32,001 protein-coding genes were predicted with 31,993 genes (99.98%) annotated. The chromosome-level genome assembly of K. pelamis is key to understanding its evolution and genetics, facilitating targeted conservation and sustainable fishing practices for this economically important species.