Camellia meiocarpa genome. Haplotype-resolved genome assembly of the tetraploid Youcha tree Camellia meiocarpa Hu

Camellia meiocarpa Hu, a member of Youcha species in the genus Camellia, is an important woody edible Youcha plant with high ecological and economic value. The haplotype-resolved genome assembly of this tetraploid species can shed light on genomic evolution and the functional divergence among subgenomes and haplotypes. In this study, we achieved the first chromosome-level haplotype-resolved genome assembly using PacBio HiFi, Hi-C, and Illumina sequencing. The scaffolds, with an N50 of 44.46 Mb and 41.40 Mb, were mapped to 60 chromosomes and four distinct haplotypes, each with unique transposon features. The haplotypes varied in length (2967.25 Mb to 3041.66 Mb) and contained 51,336 to 52,631 protein-coding genes, 99.4% of which were annotated. Non-coding RNAs and repetitive elements were identified across haplotypes. Significant functional divergence among haplotypes was observed, suggesting their distinct roles in controlling vital processes and phenotypes. This comprehensive genomic resource will enhance molecular and genetic studies, aiding in the conservation and utilization of Youcha.