Chromosome-scale genome assembly reveals insights into the evolution and ecology of the harmful algal bloom species Phaeocystis globosa Scherffel.

ABSTRACT

The phytoplankton Phaeocystis globosa plays an important role in sulfur cycling and climate control, and can develop harmful algal blooms (HABs). Here we report a chromosome-scale reference genome assembly of P. globosa, which enable in-depth analysis of molecular underpinnings of important ecological characteristics. Comparative genomic analyses detected two-rounds of genome duplications that may have fueled evolutionary innovations. The genome duplication may have resulted in the formation of dual HiDP and LoDP dimethylsulphoniopropionate (DMSP) biosynthesis pathways in P. globosa. Selective gene family expansions may have strengthened biological pathways critical for colonial formation that is often associated with the development of algal blooms. The copy numbers of rhodopsin genes are variable in different strains, suggesting that rhodopsin genes may play a role in strain-specific adaptation to ecological factors. The successful reconstruction of the P. globosa genome sets up an excellent platform that facilitates in-depth research on bloom development and DMSP metabolism.