Moulos lab participates in the first chromosome-level genome assembly of the Vermilion Snapper fish.
A recent collaboration between Fleming (Moulos lab) and researchers from the National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Institution as well as the Lehigh Oceans Research Center (USA) resulted in the chromosome-level genome assembly of a fish species previously under-characterized. [Pubmed], [DOI].
In this collaborative effort, the researchers have successfully completed the first high-quality, chromosome-level genome assembly of the Vermilion Snapper (Rhomboplites aurorubens), a colorful reef fish of major ecological and economic importance, found in the western Atlantic Ocean from North Carolina to Brazil. The Vermilion Snapper supports both commercial and recreational fisheries but has experienced population declines that led to its classification as Vulnerable by the IUCN. This new reference genome provides a vital foundation for understanding the species’ biology and supporting its sustainable management.
The assembled genome has a total size of 987.5 Mbp, organized into 24 chromosomes, with a scaffold N50 of 41.3 Mbp, making it the most contiguous Atlantic snapper genome to date. The following genome annotation identified 34,496 predicted genes, showing about 98% completeness in terms of single‐copy orthologs (BUSCO), indicating high coverage of expected gene content. The assembly is now a resource that will support deeper studies in population genomics, local adaptation, mislabeling in fisheries, and conservation.
The team achieved this chromosome-level assembly by integrating multiple sequencing approaches: long-read sequencing for accuracy, short-read sequencing for polishing, and Hi-C data to correctly arrange DNA into chromosomes. Advanced computational pipelines were used to build, refine, and validate the genome, followed by thorough annotation of genes and repetitive elements. Comparative analyses with related fish species further confirmed the quality and evolutionary placement of the Vermilion Snapper genome, ensuring it will serve as a robust reference for future studies.
