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Dryad

Long read genome assembly of Automeris io (Lepidoptera: Saturniidae) an emerging model for the evolution of deimatic displays

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Feb 23, 2024 version files 65.77 MB

Abstract

Automeris moths are a morphologically diverse group with 145 described species that have a geographic range that spans from the New World temperate zone to the Neotropics. Many Automeris have hindwing eyespots that are thought to deter or disrupt the attack of potential predators, allowing the moth time to escape. Some species in the genus have vestigial eyespots or lack them completely, suggesting that this trait may provide a selective benefit. The Io moth (Automeris io), known for its striking eyespots, is the most widely studied species within the genus and is an emerging model system to study the evolution of deimatism, a predatory defense that combines visual stimuli and movement. Here we present a high-quality, PacBio HiFi genome assembly for Io moth to aid existing research on the molecular development of eyespots. Genomic research is needed to address questions involving antipredatory defenses and eyespot pattern development. BUSCO analysis for this genome shows a completeness of 98.4%, and N50 of 15.