Recent Progress of Avain Genome Sequencing and Application of High-Throughput Sequencing Technology

Avian genome sequence is important for understanding its genome-wide evolutionary characteristics upon constant mutation and natural selection. Before the next generation sequencing era, the scientists have decoded the red jungle fowl (Gallus gallus) and zebra finch (Taeniopygia guttata). These two genomes dramatically pushed the avian genomics research forward.

The next generation sequencing era came and further accelerated the avian genome sequencing. To date, twelve avian genomes have been published. As a major contributor in the genome sequencing field, BGI took part in six of the twelve avian genome projects.

With our collaborator, we decoded the peregrine and saker falcon genome sequences this year, which provide insights into evolution of a predator lifestyle. Here we will introduce this story. More importantly, more avian genomes are sequenced as time goes on, which make it possible to obtain more comprehensive understanding of avian phylogeny based on genome sequences. By the way, BGI calls for collaboration for the Bird 10K project.