Skipper genome sheds light on unique phenotypic traits and phylogeny

摘要: Butterflies and moths are emerging as model organisms in genetics evolutionary studies. The family Hesperiidae (skippers) was traditionally viewed a sister to other butterflies based on its moth-like morphology darting flight habits with fast wing beats. However, DNA studies suggest that the Papilionidae (swallowtails) may be the including skippers. features controversial position of skippers Lepidoptera phylogeny make them valuable targets for comparative genomics. We obtained 310 Mb draft genome Clouded Skipper (Lerema accius) from wild-caught specimen using cost-effective strategy that overcomes high (1.6 %) heterozygosity problem. Comparative analysis Lerema accius highly heterozygous Papilio glaucus revealed differences patterns SNP distribution, but similarities functions genes enriched non-synonymous SNPs. Comparison genomes possible molecular bases unique traits skippers: duplication electron transport chain components could result efficient energy supply their rapid flight; diversified predicted cellulases might allow feed cellulose-enriched grasses; an expansion pheromone-binding proteins enzymes pheromone synthesis implies more mate-recognition system, which compensates lack clear visual cues due colors many species Phylogenetic several suggested remains uncertain tree topology varied depending model. Completion first genome from allowed analyses potential genetic phenotypic This work lays foundation future experimental provides rich dataset genomics phylogenetic Lepidoptera.