Genomic analysis reveals broad adaptability of coral-killing sponge (Terpios hoshinota) under environmental stress.

ABSTRACT: The coral-killing sponge, Terpios hoshinota, poses a significant ecological threat to coral reefs, exhibiting rapid expansion and competitive overgrowth. Despite its invasiveness, the genomic basis underlying its adaptability and resilience remains largely unexplored. Here, we present a high-quality genome assembly of T. hoshinota, comprising 169.4 Mb with 40,945 predicted genes. Phylogenomic analysis estimated its divergence from other demosponges during the Ordovician (~ 471 million years ago), even though its simple morphology suggests a more ancient evolutionary origin. Comparative genomic analyses revealed enrichment of genes related to substrate adhesion, innate immunity, and developmental pathways, including expansions of Wnt signaling, homeobox genes, and cell migration gene ontolo

SUBMITTER: Liu PY 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12465263 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature