A Chromosome-Level Reference Assembly and Annotation for the White-Faced Plover (Charadrius dealbatus) Genome

Area of Science:

• Avian genomics
• Evolutionary biology
• Conservation genetics

Background:

• The Charadrius genus includes 36 species with diverse life histories.
• Recent taxonomic revisions identified new species like the white-faced plover (C. dealbatus).
• High-quality reference genomes are crucial for understanding Charadrius evolution and adaptation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assemble the first chromosome-level, high-quality genome for the white-faced plover (C. dealbatus).
• To provide a foundational genomic resource for the Charadrius genus.

Main Methods:

• Whole-genome sequencing and assembly.
• Bioinformatic analyses for assessing genome completeness and gene prediction.
• Chromosome anchoring and scaffolding.

Main Results:

• Successfully assembled a 1.25 Gb genome for C. dealbatus, anchored on 31 chromosomes.
• Achieved high contig (23.62 Mb N50) and scaffold (84.07 Mb N50) N50 values.
• Genome completeness confirmed by BUSCO (97.3%) and UCE (97.0%) loci; 17,641 protein-coding genes predicted.

Conclusions:

• The chromosome-level genome of C. dealbatus is a valuable permanent genomic resource.
• Facilitates future research in evolutionary history, population genetics, and conservation of the Charadrius genus.