We are proud to share our latest publication on BioRxiv, the result of a collaborative effort involving the CNRGV and our partners. Together, we present a chromosome-scale reference genome of Cupressus sempervirens, generated using PacBio HiFi sequencing and scaffolded with optical and genetic maps, delivering one of the most contiguous conifer genomes assembled to date. 🧬

TE dynamic evolution and paleogenomic reconstruction analysis reveal that the giant cypress genome has been shaped by the long-term accumulation of ancient transposable elements, rather than by recent bursts of activity or whole genome duplication. This new reference genome provides a valuable resource for studying conifer genome evolution, gene structure, and traits of ecological and agronomic importance, including cypress pollinosis.

This publication reflects the CNRGV's long-standing expertise in genome assembly and highlights our contribution to decoding some of the largest and most complex plant genomes such as conifers. 🤝

Congratulations to all the team and especially William Marande and Charlotte Cravero for their involvement and thank you to all our collaborators who contributed to this paper! 🎉

🔗 https://doi.org/10.64898/2026.07.23.736688