Nasalis larvatus Genome sequencing and assembly. Nasalis larvatus

The data obtained from sequencing of the Proboscis monkey genomes from both Sabah and Sarawak is expected to aid in the conservation and breeding of this iconic and endangered species through the detailed understanding of their biology and represents the first completed genome sequence of an animal species from Malaysia. (There are less than 3,000 animals left in the wild and the Proboscis Monkey does not survive easily in captivity.). Informative genetic markers derived from the data will be used to gauge the ancestry between animals. This knowledge could then be used to tailor breeding programmes to maintain the biodiversity of the species. The availability of the Proboscis Monkey’s complete genomic data will also enable the study of evolutionary relatedness to other mammals.