Chromosome-level genome assembly of Dynastes reidi reveals structural evolution of autosomes and the sex chromosomes in Hercules Beetles

The Hercules beetles have long been iconic symbols of evolutionary diversification, sexual selection, and systematics. Despite their rapid phenotypic evolution and a rich history of inspiring evolutionary biologists, genomic resources for these charismatic beetles remain limited, especially for the Giant Hercules beetles. We present the first chromosome-level genome assembly of a Giant Hercules beetle from the Lesser Antilles. The assembled genome is approximately 837 Mb in size, with a scaffold N50 of 66.68 Mb, which can be anchored to 11 pseudochromosomes with a BUSCO completeness score of 95.9%. An estimate of 55.5% of the genome can be attributed to repetitive elements. Additionally, we detected candidate sex-linked chromosomes by comparing sequencing read depths between one male and two females using Illumina short reads. The chromosome-level genome assembly of Dynastes reidi not only provides critical insights into evolutionary and functional genomics but also supports informed co..., , # Chromosome-level genome assembly of *Dynastes reidi* reveals structural evolution of autosomes and the sex chromosomes in Hercules Beetles

[https://doi.org/10.5061/dryad.fn2z34v7f](https://doi.org/10.5061/dryad.fn2z34v7f)

## Description of the Data and file structure

Files and folders (found within D.reidi.zip)

### **Braker2_results**

```
* reidi_braker.gff3: The information for gene predictions in *Dynastes reidi* genome assembly

* reidi_braker.aa.fasta: The list of protein-coding genes in *Dynastes reidi* genome assembly
```

### **BUSCO**

Busco results of genome assembly and genome annotation of *D. reidi* genome assembly and annotation.

```
* busco_result_reidi_genome_assembly

* busco sequences

* fragmented_busco_sequences (40 files)

* multi_copy_busco_sequences (76 files)

* single_copy_busco_sequences (1961 files)

full_table.tsv

missing_busco_list.tsv

short...,