Genome sequencing of Raphidocelis subcapitata NIES-35

Raphidocelis subcapitata (Pseudokirchneriella subcapitata) NIES-35 is a green alga, which was formerly known as 'Selenastrum capricornutum NIVA-CHL1'. This strain is identical to the strain ATCC22662, which is broadly used for bioassays in toxicological risk assessment worldwide. The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) protocol recommends the use of this green alga as TG 201. Raphidocelis subcapitata is suitable for these bioassays because of its high reproduction efficiency, sensitivity to various substances, and good reproducibility. To determine the genetic background of R. subcapitata, the nuclear, mitochondrial, and plastid genomes were sequenced. These genomes will be useful for evaluating genome evolution of green algae, predicting toxicity, and revealing toxicological background in risk assessments.