A near-complete genome assembly of the bearded dragon Pogona vitticeps

This study focuses on the popular pet reptile, the central bearded dragon (Pogona vitticeps). Utilizing CycloneSEQ and DNBSEQ sequencing technologies, we conducted whole genome and long-read sequencing on a captive-bred ZZ male to construct a chromosome-scale reference genome. By constructing a high-quality reference genome, we aimed to investigate the origin of sex chromosomes and the mechanisms of sex determination in P. vitticeps. Our study provides new insights into the origin of sex chromosomes and sex determination mechanisms in P. vitticeps. The nearly complete reference genome will also benefit future studies on amniote evolution and may facilitate genome-assisted breeding.