Hybrid Genome Assembly of a Regenerative Chordate

Abstract

Modern genome sequencing technologies open new avenues for research on biological processes in non‐model organisms. Colonial ascidians are a diverse group of invertebrate chordates capable of whole body regeneration, an unusual trait that is absent from vertebrates. Although genomic data are available for a few related species, there exist no such data for the highly regenerative species Botrylloides violaceus. Using a de novo hybrid assembly approach, we present the first draft of the B. violaceus genome sequence. By integrating short read and long read sequencing technologies, genome assembly becomes cost‐effective and easily accessible. Comparative genomic analysis between B. violaceus and other chordate genomes reveals insights into the evolution of gene families implicated in regeneration and development. Support or Funding Information Warren J. Baker and Robert D. Koob Endowments, California Polytechnic State University; The Frost Fund, College of Science and Mathematics, California Polytechnic State University