The first draft reference genome of the American mink (Neovison vison)

The American mink (Neovison vison) is a semiaquatic species of mustelid native to North America. It is an important animal for the fur industry. Many efforts have been made to locate genes influencing fur quality and color, but this search has been impeded by the lack of a reference assembly of the mink genome. Here we present the first draft genome assembly of the American mink. Assembly yielded 7,175 scaffolds with an N50 of 6.3 Mb. The assembly included 2.4 Gb plus gaps, representing 90% of the estimated genome size of mink. Multiple approaches were used to assess the quality of the genome assembly. Repeat sequences constitute 40% of the genome, consistent with the dog and cat genomes. Gene annotation found 21,053 protein coding sequence presented in mink genome. The reference genome's structure is consistent with the microsatellite based genetic map. Mapping of well-studied genes thought to be involved in the coat quality and coat color and previously located fur quality QTL provide new knowledge about fur traits. The draft mink genome shows great potential to facilitate genomic research towards improved breeding for high fur quality animals and strengthening our understanding of the evolution of Carnivora.