ERGA-BGE genome of Coenonympha oedippus: an IUCN endangered European butterfly species occurring in two ecotypes

Abstract

The reference genome of the False ringlet (Coenonympha oedippus) will serve as a valuable resource for uncovering the genetic mechanism underlying the species' adaptability to two ecologically distinct habitats. Through this genome we might be able to determine whether (i) each ecotype is monophyletic, indicating that the ecological divergence represents an early stage of speciation, (ii) the ecotypes have evolved through divergent evolution of habitat preference, or (iii) the differences between ecotypes are solely due to phenotypic plasticity or epigenetic variation. This reference genome is also a prerequisite for the planning, design, and implementation of conservation measures for this endangered species, taking into account its intraspecific diversity. Furthermore, it holds broader implications for population genomic studies of the species-rich genus Coenonympha, which includes some of the most endangered butterfly taxa in Europe. The complete genome sequence was assembled into 30 contiguous chromosomal pseudomolecules (sex chromosomes included). This chromosome-level assembly encompasses 0.39 Gb, composed of 385 contigs and 62 scaffolds, with contig and scaffold N50 values of 2.8 Mb and 14.2 Mb, respectively.