Chromosomal-level reference genome and microRNAs of the ricefield flatsedge Cyperus iria

Abstract

BackgroundGrass-like plants in the Cyperaceae family, commonly known as sedges, have a global distribution and include many economically problematic weeds. The ricefield flatsedge, Cyperus iria, is an aggressive weed in rice crops in Asia. ResultHere, we present a chromosomal-level genome assembly for C. iria (461.2 Mb, scaffold N50 = 7.3 Mbp, 99.6% BUSCO score) providing potential targets for the control of this devastating weed. Based on the genome assembly and transcriptomes of vegetative tissues, 52,574 protein-coding genes were predicted to be encoded. A total of 26 conserved and 75 novel microRNAs, including 9 microRNA clusters, were also annotated. Synteny and microRNA cluster analyses further showed that C. iria had undergone at least one round of whole genome duplication. ConclusionThe genomic resource established in this study sets up a foundation to further address basic and applied questions in the Cyperaceae.