Cochliomyia hominivorax Genome sequencing

The goal of this project is to improve the current reference genome assembly of New World screwworm fly (NWS), Cochliomyia hominivorax. NWS is an obligate parasite causing significant economic losses to livestock producers, but will also infest domesticated and wild animals, and occasionally humans. Prior to the eradication program, NWS could be found from the southern United States to Uruguay, and several Caribbean islands. A recent outbreak has resulted in the reinfestation of Central America and southern Mexico. An improved genome assembly, particularly the sex chromosome assemblies, could provide novel targets for genetic control strategies.