JOURNAL ARTICLE

A chromosome-level reference genome for the common bed bug, Cimex lectularius, with identification of sex chromosomes.

  • Published In: Journal of Heredity, 2025, v. 116, n. 3. P. 382 1 of 3

  • Database: Academic Search Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Miles, Lindsay S; Adams, Richard; Francioli, Yannick Z; Card, Daren C; Castoe, Todd A; Booth, Warren 3 of 3

Abstract

The article focuses on the development of a high-quality, haplotype-resolved, chromosome-level reference genome for the common bed bug, *Cimex lectularius*, a globally distributed pest of medical and economic importance. Using PacBio long-read and Omni-C proximity sequencing technologies, researchers assembled a 540 Mb genome comprising 15 chromosomes, including 13 autosomes and two sex chromosomes (X₁X₂), improving upon previous fragmented draft genomes. The study confirmed the sex chromosome system through coverage analysis and synteny with the tropical bed bug (*Cimex hemipterus*), and identified a high abundance of LINE retroelements among repetitive sequences. This genome assembly provides a valuable resource for investigating bed bug evolution, host adaptation, urban infestation dynamics, and mechanisms of insecticide resistance.

Additional Information

  • Source:Journal of Heredity. 2025/05, Vol. 116, Issue 3, p382
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Zoology
  • Publication Date:2025
  • ISSN:0022-1503
  • DOI:10.1093/jhered/esae071
  • Accession Number:186054080
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