Whole genome sequencing and assembly of the Southern Ground Hornbill (Bucorvus leadbeateri). Bucorvus leadbeateri isolate:bBucLead

The Southern Ground Hornbill is the largest hornbill species in the world that belongs to the family Bucorvidae and the genus Bucorvus. They are endemic to Africa and can be found across several countries such as South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, and Angola. Over the years, the population of the Southern Ground Hornbills has been declining to the point that they are classified as Vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Endangered in South Africa. They are a part of several conservation efforts that include research as a major component, however, a large part of these efforts have focused on the lifestyle, behavior, and survival patterns of these birds. There is still a substantial lack of knowledge regarding their genetic potential. This study thus aimed to sequence, assemble, and annotate the whole genome of the Southern Ground Hornbill. This genome sequence will serve as the backbone for the identification of genetic pathways and mechanisms utilized in the survival of the Southern Ground Hornbill. Furthermore, it provides a pivotal foundation for comparative genomic analysis with other hornbill species to gain insight into the functional aspects of the biology, behavior, longevity, and evolution of these birds. Ultimately this whole genome sequence will preserve the history of the Southern Ground Hornbill in the possible event of extinction and aid in making crucial decisions towards the conservation of these birds.