Chromosome-level genome assembly and functional annotation of Citrullus colocynthis: unlocking genetic resources for drought-resilient crop development.

ABSTRACT:

Main conclusion

The chromosome-level genome assembly of Citrullus colocynthis reveals its genetic potential for enhancing drought tolerance, paving the way for innovative crop improvement strategies. This study presents the first comprehensive genome assembly and annotation of Citrullus colocynthis, a drought-tolerant wild close relative of cultivated watermelon, highlighting its potential for enhancing agricultural resilience to climate change. The study achieved a chromosome-level assembly using advanced sequencing technologies, including PacBio HiFi and Hi-C, revealing a genome size of approximately 366 Mb with low heterozygosity and substantial repetitive content. Our analysis identified 23,327 gene models, that could encode stress response mechanisms for species' adaptation to

SUBMITTER: Gkanogiannis A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11499410 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature