Whole Genome Sequencing of the Common Vole (Microtus arvalis)

Illumina HiSeq 2500, 250 bp paired end, whole genome sequencing: WGS raw reads and de novo genome assembly of the common vole (Microtus arvalis). Total genomic DNA from a male liver sample was isolated using the DNeasy Blood and Tissue Kit (Qiagen, #69504). The sample for WGS is retrieved from an outbred colony, which is successfully kept in the lab at the University of Groningen since the late '80 (Gerkema et al., 1990, Journal of Biological Rhythms). The original vole colony was established from individuals trapped in the Lauwersmeer area (Netherlands, 53º20'N; 6º16'E), from the latitudinal center of its distribution range. Occasionally voles from the same region have been added to the colony in order to prevent the lab population from inbreeding. DNA barcoding has been used in order to confirm the species (i.e. Microtus arvalis).