iiinova — where your digital self keeps evolving

Reposted by Anna Bramucci

Earth BioGenome Project 🌍 @ebpgenome.bsky.social · 05/10/2026

🦇 What can 103 bat genomes tell us about bat evolution? A landmark study from EBP-affiliated Bat1K is rewriting the bat family tree, revealing new insights into their origins and the evolution of echolocation. 🧬🌍 Photos: D. Whitby #Bat1K #BiodiversityGenomics #Genomics #BatGenomics #BatEvolution

A bat flies with its wings fully extended against a dark background. Text reads: “Where did bats come from? The genomic and fossil evidence points to Europe. The study traces the common ancestor of bats to Europe in the late Palaeocene, followed by dispersal into Africa and eventually across the globe.”

A bat flies with its wings extended in front of a rocky cave background. Text reads: “Which came first: Flight or Echolocation? The answer is still unclear. But new evidence suggests laryngeal echolocation was already present before modern bats diversified, placing it near the very beginning of bat evolution.”

1112

Reposted by Anna Bramucci

Earth BioGenome Project 🌍 @ebpgenome.bsky.social · 05/10/2026

🦇🧬 Genomes are rewriting the bat family tree. A landmark study from EBP-affiliated Bat1K brings together 103 chromosome-level genome assemblies spanning all 21 living bat families, shedding new light on where bats originated, how they are related, and the evolution of echolocation. Photo: S. Olson

Alt text: Close-up photo of a grey bat with large ears and folded wings. Text reads: “Genomes are rewriting the bat family tree. A landmark Bat1K study is reshaping what we know about bat evolution.”
Photo Credits go to several amazing photographers who helped bring this story to life:
Slide 1 Sarah Olson, Wildlife Conservation Society Canada

1238

Reposted by Anna Bramucci

Earth BioGenome Project 🌍 @ebpgenome.bsky.social · 09/10/2026

🦇 Bat1K takes the cover of Nature! A landmark study brings together 103 chromosome-level reference genomes across all 21 living bat families, offering new insights into bat evolution and biogeography. 🧬 Check it out today: www.nature.com/articles/s41... #Bat1K #BiodiversityGenomics #batevolution

Alt text: Nature journal cover featuring bats in flight against a dark background, highlighting a Bat1K study on bat evolution and genomics.
📷 Cover image: Brock and Sherri Fenton

1256

Reposted by Anna Bramucci

Earth BioGenome Project 🌍 @ebpgenome.bsky.social · 10/09/2026

🧬🌍 While some of us were at the beach this summer, EBP-affiliated projects were busy sequencing life on Earth. Together, our global community has now generated 5,000+ genome assemblies meeting EBP reference-quality standards! Thank you to everyone around the world who made this milestone possible. 🌍

13713

Reposted by Anna Bramucci

Earth BioGenome Project 🌍 @ebpgenome.bsky.social · 08/09/2026

🐝 More than 1 million insect species have been described. Millions more may still be out there. Now imagine trying to sequence them. 🧬 From tiny amounts of DNA to wildly different genomes, insects present some of biodiversity genomics’ biggest challenges. #EarthBioGenomeProject #Insects #Genomics

A collage of diverse insects arranged around the text, “Unlocking the Genomes of Earth’s Most Diverse Animals.” The insects include beetles, moths, butterflies, bees, ants, grasshoppers, stick insects, and other species, illustrating the extraordinary diversity of insects.

World map surrounded by photographs of insects from different regions. Text reads, “More than 1 million insect species have been described. Millions more may remain undiscovered. And each represents a genome we have yet to explore.”

13913

Reposted by Anna Bramucci

Earth BioGenome Project 🌍 @ebpgenome.bsky.social · 26/08/2026

🧬🌿 Why sequence an entire ecosystem? No species exists in isolation. Plants, animals, fungi and microbes are connected through complex ecological networks. Sequencing across ecosystems can help us understand not just what lives there — but how life works together. #Genomics #Biodiversity

Alt text: A lush pond surrounded by ferns, reeds, moss, and other vegetation, with sunlight reflecting off the water. Overlaid text reads, “Why sequence an entire ecosystem?” with “ecosystem” highlighted in yellow.

Alt text: A collage showing the biodiversity of a pond ecosystem, including water lilies, damselflies, snails, duckweed, reeds, a frog, a duck, microscopic algae, and a mayfly. Overlaid text reads, “A pond isn’t one organism. It’s a living network.”

15416

Reposted by Anna Bramucci

Earth BioGenome Project 🌍 @ebpgenome.bsky.social · 05/08/2026

🧬 Two ideas that underpin biodiversity genomics at scale: ✔️ Don't wait for perfection. ✔️ Learn quickly and keep improving. From one genome to hundreds of thousands starts with this mindset. 📖 Read the full Scientist Spotlight: tinyurl.com/EBPLife #BiodiversityGenomics #TreeOfLife #OpenScience

Group photo of members of the Tree of Life Programme laboratory team standing together in a bright laboratory, wearing blue or white lab coats. Large windows overlook trees outside, and laboratory benches line both sides of the room. Overlaid text reads: "Have amazing people on your team who are deeply invested in getting all of these organisms through, and who give them their love and attention because they understand how important it is." The phrases "deeply invested" and "understand how important" are highlighted in yellow.

Dr Caroline Howard and Dr Graeme Oatley stand outdoors beside a wooden fence overlooking a pond surrounded by trees and greenery at the Wellcome Sanger Institute campus. Both wear staff lanyards and smile toward the camera. Overlaid text reads: "We've been happy to fail fast and then learn." The word "learn" is highlighted in yellow.

193

Reposted by Anna Bramucci

Earth BioGenome Project 🌍 @ebpgenome.bsky.social · 06/08/2026

🌍 Bigger genomes. Better assemblies. Bolder ambitions. The next frontier in biodiversity genomics is no longer just generating data—it's creating complete, biologically accurate genomes at scale. Read the Q&A: tinyurl.com/EBPLife #EarthBioGenomeProject #Genomics #Biodiversity

Dr Kerstin Howe, Associate Director of the Tree of Life programme at the Wellcome Sanger Institute, smiles toward the camera while seated indoors in front of a colorful patterned wall. She wears glasses and a teal long-sleeved top beneath a dark vest. A text overlay features the quote, "Our most intimidating genome so far was the mistletoe—over 90 Gb in size, 30 times larger than the human genome," with the words "mistletoe" and "90 Gb" highlighted in yellow. The slide identifies Dr Kerstin Howe as part of the Tree of Life programme at the Wellcome Sanger Institute.

Dr Giulio Formenti stands outdoors in front of green foliage wearing a dark suit, white shirt, and orange tie while looking toward the camera. A text overlay displays the quote, "The challenge is no longer generating data, but converting that data into biologically accurate and fully resolved genome representations at scale," with the words "fully resolved" highlighted in yellow. The slide identifies Dr Giulio Formenti as a researcher at The Rockefeller University and a member of the Vertebrate Genomes Project.

096

Reposted by Anna Bramucci

Earth BioGenome Project 🌍 @ebpgenome.bsky.social · 13/08/2026

🧬 The VGP Phase I preprint is out! 🎉 The Vertebrate Genomes Project has completed Phase I, delivering 816 of the highest-quality vertebrate reference genomes ever produced. Explore this major new resource for vertebrate genomics: 📄 tinyurl.com/VGPphase1 @vertebrategenomes.bsky.social #Genomics

Graphic featuring a collage of diverse vertebrates, including a chameleon, sea turtle, frog, whale, bat, duck, axolotl, shark, echidna, salamander, bird, tropical fish, leopard, crocodile, cassowary, clownfish, Komodo dragon, snake and deep-sea fish. Text reads: “A New Milestone for Vertebrate Genomics.” The Vertebrate Genomes Project (VGP) has completed Phase I, delivering 816 high-quality reference genomes spanning 95% of vertebrate orders.

Underwater photograph of a humpback whale swimming beneath the ocean surface. Text reads: “Why Vertebrates? More than 70,000 vertebrate species inhabit our planet.” High-quality reference genomes help researchers understand evolution, biodiversity, conservation and adaptation.

13225

Reposted by Anna Bramucci

Earth BioGenome Project 🌍 @ebpgenome.bsky.social · 06/08/2026

🌍 Thousands of species. Millions to go. Scaling biodiversity genomics isn't just about sequencing more genomes—it's about building the methods, collaborations, and technologies to do it well. Read the EBP Life Q&A: tinyurl.com/EBPLife @sangerinstitute.bsky.social | @canadianbiogenome.bsky.social

Amy Denton, a researcher with the Tree of Life programme at the Wellcome Sanger Institute, smiles while working in a molecular biology laboratory. Wearing a light blue lab coat, gloves, and safety glasses, she holds a small sample tube above a rack of collection tubes. Laboratory equipment is visible in the background. A text overlay features the quote, "Being persistent and not giving up on samples has enabled several breakthroughs," with the words "several breakthroughs" highlighted in yellow. Amy Denton is identified as part of the Tree of Life programme at the Wellcome Sanger Institute.

Dr Tara Paton, Director of the Genome Diagnostics Laboratory and Scientific Director of the Centre for Applied Genomics at The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids), works alongside a colleague in a genomics laboratory. She is seated at a computer pointing to data displayed on the screen while her colleague stands beside her. A text overlay contains the quote, "It is always top of mind for us how precious the samples we receive are," with the words "how precious" highlighted in yellow. The slide identifies Dr Tara Paton with the Centre for Applied Genomics and the Canadian BioGenome Project.

Dr Hugh MacIntosh stands in the collections area of the Royal BC Museum, surrounded by rows of specimen storage cabinets. He smiles at the camera while standing beside a drawer containing preserved museum specimens. Text on the slide explains that sequencing threatened species begins long before the laboratory. A highlighted quote reads, "Technical feasibility alone is not always enough," with the words "not always" highlighted in yellow. Additional text notes that successful biodiversity genomics depends on permits, Indigenous and community partnerships, and responsible sampling, with the word "depends" highlighted. Dr Hugh MacIntosh is identified as being with the Royal BC Museum and the Canadian BioGenome Project.

174

Reposted by Anna Bramucci

Earth BioGenome Project 🌍 @ebpgenome.bsky.social · 06/08/2026

🧬 Genomic Frontiers: EBP Life is live. From giant plant genomes to critically endangered species, every genome presents unique challenges. Hear how researchers across the Earth BioGenome Project network are overcoming them. Read the Q&A: tinyurl.com/EBPLife 🌍 #GenomeAssembly #OpenScience #DNA

A rocky coastal shoreline under a cloudy blue sky. On the right, Professor Mark Blaxter stands on the rocks wearing outdoor field clothing, green rubber boots, and a wide-brimmed hat while carrying a large wicker basket of sampling equipment. The left side contains the title, "Today's Impossible Genomes. Tomorrow's Routine Projects." A dark text box explains that no two genomes are difficult for the same reason: some species have tiny genomes, others have enormous genomes, and different biological characteristics create different challenges for genome sequencing and assembly. The phrase "push the limits" is highlighted in yellow.

Portrait of Professor Mark Blaxter standing in a grassy field holding dried seed heads. He wears a red hoodie beneath a blue outdoor jacket and looks toward the camera. A dark text box overlays the left side with a quotation stating that most species on Earth are small and that giant organisms such as mice, trees, and dragonflies are the exception. The words "are the exception" are highlighted in yellow. The image identifies Mark Blaxter as part of the Tree of Life programme at the Wellcome Sanger Institute.

Portrait of Professor Bouabid Badaoui standing outdoors in a park with a softly blurred green background. He wears a light blue dress shirt, dark tie, and holds a jacket over one arm while facing the camera. A dark text box in the lower right displays the quote, "What we consider 'hard' is constantly shifting," with the word "shifting" highlighted in yellow. The caption identifies him as Professor Bouabid Badaoui of the Africa BioGenome Project at Mohammed V University.

1115

Reposted by Anna Bramucci

Vertebrate Genomes Project @vertebrategenomes.bsky.social · 06/08/2026

We are excited to officially share the first fully phased telomere-to-telomere (T2T) reference genome for a songbird! 🐦 www.cell.com/cell/fulltex...

manuscript alert

The Complete Genome of a Songbird

a major milestone in bird genomics

This new genome closes nearly all previous gaps, including complex heterochromatic regions, microchromosomes, and sex chromosomes. Built using a combination of PacBio HiFi long reads, ONT ultra-long reads, Arima Genomics Hi-C reads for chromosome scaffolding, and Illumina parental short reads for haplotype phasing, this T2T assembly provides an unprecented view of the zebra finch genome and advances research of vocal learning and evolution.

featured in a special issue in Cell

Images:
- Article title and authors
- QR code for manuscript
- Cell T2T issue cover

14116

Reposted by Anna Bramucci

Earth BioGenome Project 🌍 @ebpgenome.bsky.social · 05/08/2026

The next chapter of biodiversity genomics is not about sequencing one species—it's about making it possible to sequence them all. @sangerinstitute.bsky.social | Tree of Life programme

Infographic illustrating the workflow required to scale biodiversity genomics from individual genome projects to hundreds of thousands of species. The title reads: "From one genome to hundreds of thousands." A horizontal pipeline shows five stages: Diverse samples, Automation, Sequencing, Specialized R&D, and Scale & Impact, represented by simple icons connected with arrows. Around the workflow are examples of biodiversity, including a jellyfish, butterfly, flowering plant, fern, salamander, tree frog, chameleon, fish, kelp, coral, bat, mushroom, spider, and microscopic protists. The bottom text reads: "Building the infrastructure that allows biodiversity genomics to scale." The words "hundreds of thousands" and "to scale" are highlighted in yellow.

0183

Reposted by Anna Bramucci

Earth BioGenome Project 🌍 @ebpgenome.bsky.social · 05/08/2026

🧬 How do we scale biodiversity genomics? In the latest issue of EBP Life, Dr Caroline Howard shares how the Tree of Life Programme is building the infrastructure needed to produce reference genomes at scale. 📖 tinyurl.com/EBPLife #EarthBioGenomeProject #BiodiversityGenomics #Genomics #TreeOfLife

Scientist Spotlight graphic featuring Dr Caroline Howard seated at her desk in an office at the Wellcome Sanger Institute, smiling toward the camera. Two computer monitors display laboratory workflow dashboards, with biodiversity illustrations on the wall behind her. Overlaid text reads: "How do we scale biodiversity genomics? 'We cannot do this manually.'" Dr Howard is identified as part of the Tree of Life programme at the Wellcome Sanger Institute.

Dr Caroline Howard works at a laboratory bench while holding a labelled sample tube above a rack of orange-capped tubes. She wears a blue lab coat and gloves, with laboratory equipment and another researcher working in the background. Overlaid text reads: "At some point, you have to decide that 80% success is enough to move forward and scale." The words "move forward and scale" are highlighted in yellow.

1287

Reposted by Anna Bramucci

Earth BioGenome Project 🌍 @ebpgenome.bsky.social · 22/07/2026

Science is a team effort. Every reference genome depends on collaboration across the fields of biology, sequencing, genome assembly, and bioinformatics. Thanks to Marta Riutort and the Catalan Initiative for the Earth BioGenome Project team for sharing this work in Catalan. Moltes gràcies! 👏🧬🌿

Photo 5 (Researchers collecting marine samples)

English Alt Text:
Two researchers work together aboard a small boat, handling marine sampling equipment over calm blue water. One researcher holds a sampling device while the other prepares a collection container. English and Catalan text highlights the Catalan Initiative for the Earth BioGenome Project and explains that researchers from more than thirty institutions have worked together since 2019 to sequence the biodiversity of the Catalan-speaking territories as part of the global Earth BioGenome Project.

Català (Text alternatiu):
Dos investigadors treballen junts a bord d'una petita embarcació mentre manipulen equips de mostreig marí sobre aigües tranquil·les. Un sosté un dispositiu de mostreig mentre l'altre prepara un recipient per a les mostres. La imatge inclou text en anglès i català que destaca la Iniciativa Catalana per a l'Earth BioGenome Project i explica que, des del 2019, investigadors de més de trenta institucions col·laboren per seqüenciar la biodiversitat dels territoris de parla catalana com a part de la missió global de l'Earth BioGenome Project.

Photo 6 (Marine fieldwork aboard a research vessel)

English Alt Text:
Two researchers lean over the side of a research boat while collecting marine samples under bright sunlight. Buckets and sampling equipment are visible on the deck, with the open sea in the background. English and Catalan text explains that the knowledge generated through reference genomes will support future discoveries and help guide biodiversity conservation, scientific research, agriculture, and environmental decision-making.

Català (Text alternatiu):
Dos investigadors s'inclinen sobre la borda d'una embarcació de recerca mentre recullen mostres marines sota la llum intensa del sol. A la coberta s'hi veuen galledes i equips de mostreig, amb el mar al fons. La imatge inclou text en anglès i català que explica que el coneixement generat a partir dels genomes de referència contribuirà als descobriments del futur i ajudarà a orientar la conservació de la biodiversitat, la recerca científica, l'agricultura i la presa de decisions ambientals.

1155

Reposted by Anna Bramucci

Earth BioGenome Project 🌍 @ebpgenome.bsky.social · 22/07/2026

🎥🧬 Every living thing has a story. Every genome helps us read it. The Catalan Initiative for the Earth BioGenome Project is building high-quality reference genomes for the biodiversity of the Catalan-speaking territories. Cada ésser viu conté una història. Watch the video ⬇️ lnkd.in/gcfWsMDS

English Alt Text:
A great cormorant stands on the ground in a natural habitat, facing left with its long bill extended. The background is softly blurred, while bilingual English and Catalan text overlays introduce the message that every living thing has a story and highlight the Catalan Initiative for the Earth BioGenome Project.

Català (Text alternatiu):
Un corb marí gros dret en un entorn natural, mirant cap a l'esquerra amb el bec llarg estès. El fons és desenfocat i la imatge inclou text superposat en anglès i català que transmet que cada ésser viu té una història i presenta la Iniciativa Catalana per a l'Earth BioGenome Project.

Photo 2 (Bearded Vulture)

English Alt Text:
A bearded vulture perches on a rocky outcrop with its wings partially spread, showing its striking black, cream, and rust-colored plumage. Bilingual English and Catalan text explains that every genome tells a story and that every species carries millions of years of evolutionary history in its DNA.

Català (Text alternatiu):
Un trencalòs està posat sobre una roca amb les ales parcialment obertes, mostrant el seu característic plomatge negre, crema i ataronjat. La imatge inclou text en anglès i català que explica que cada genoma explica una història i que cada espècie conserva milions d'anys d'història evolutiva en el seu ADN.

32013

Reposted by Anna Bramucci

Earth BioGenome Project 🌍 @ebpgenome.bsky.social · 14/07/2026

❄️🧬 Can we generate high-quality reference genomes without the cold chain? A new study suggests the answer is yes. DNA preserved at room temperature for up to one week produced chromosome-scale reference genomes. 📖 tinyurl.com/3zwtj9ka #Genomes @gigascience.bsky.social @sangerinstitute.bsky.social

Close-up photograph of a mosquito perched on a green blade of grass against a dark background. White text at the top reads, "Breaking the Cold Chain." Additional text states, "Room-temperature preservation enables chromosome-scale reference genomes." "GigaScience 2026" appears in the lower-right corner.

Three researchers collect biological samples in a forest. One researcher kneels while holding a collection tube beside an insulated cooler, and two others stand nearby preparing samples. A large arrow points to the cooler. Text explains that high-quality reference genomes traditionally require specimens to remain frozen from collection through DNA extraction, highlighting the challenge of maintaining the cold chain during fieldwork.

15225

Reposted by Anna Bramucci

Earth BioGenome Project 🌍 @ebpgenome.bsky.social · 03/07/2026

Congratulations on the publication! 🎉 MicroFinder is a valuable new tool for biodiversity genomics, helping recover elusive microchromosomes and generate more complete reference genomes.

0233

Reposted by Anna Bramucci

Earth BioGenome Project 🌍 @ebpgenome.bsky.social · 06/07/2026

🧬 As biodiversity faces unprecedented challenges, high-quality reference #genomes preserve invaluable biological knowledge for future generations. Together, EBP affiliates are building the genomic foundation for #discoveries in #evolution, #conservation, agriculture, #biotechnology, and beyond.

A collage featuring a wide variety of eukaryotic life, including fungi, insects, butterflies, corals, echinoderms, crustaceans, earthworms, molluscs, flowering plants, mosses, trees, ferns, slime molds, microscopic organisms, fish, mammals, and marine mammals. Overlaid text reads: "Building the Genomic Library of Life." Additional text states: "Together, EBP-affiliated projects are helping build one of the largest scientific infrastructure efforts ever attempted in biology."

0159

Reposted by Anna Bramucci

Earth BioGenome Project 🌍 @ebpgenome.bsky.social · 06/07/2026

🌍🧬 The Earth BioGenome Project (EBP) is a global effort to generate high-quality reference genomes for all known eukaryotic life. From coral reefs and rainforests to polar ecosystems, researchers worldwide are building a lasting genomic library of life. #Genomics #Biodiversity #Conservation

A vibrant coral reef filled with orange anthias fish swimming above branching corals. A scuba diver explores the reef in the background. Overlaid text asks, "What is the Earth BioGenome Project?" and explains that it is a global effort to sequence, catalog, and help understand the genomic diversity of life on Earth.

A group of researchers conducts fieldwork in a rocky desert landscape with cacti under a bright blue sky. Several people examine plants and collect data while others observe. Overlaid text explains that the Earth BioGenome Project is building the genomic infrastructure to generate, organize, and mobilize knowledge of Earth's biodiversity before it is lost.

1154

Reposted by Anna Bramucci

Earth BioGenome Project 🌍 @ebpgenome.bsky.social · 06/07/2026

🧬 Tiny genomes, big discoveries. Ultra-low-input sequencing is helping researchers at the Wellcome Sanger Institute's Tree of Life Programme generate high-quality genomes from tiny tardigrades. 🔗 Read more: tinyurl.com/phemydar #Genomics #Tardigrade #Biodiversity @sangerinstitute.bsky.social

tinyurl.com

Hunting the tardigrade: one small step in sequencing DNA of all life on Earth

As this year’s invertebrate of the year competition launches, we join scientists studying last year’s winner

0307

Reposted by Anna Bramucci

Earth BioGenome Project 🌍 @ebpgenome.bsky.social · 08/07/2026

GIGA VI is in full swing in Boracay, Philippines, bringing together the global invertebrate genomics community for scientific sessions, hands-on genome assembly workshops, and discussions on the future of biodiversity genomics. @invertebrates.bsky.social

Organizing Committee members for the 6th Global Invertebrate Genomics Alliance (GIGA VI) conference gather for a group photo in Boracay, Philippines. Joe Lopez, leader of the Global Invertebrate Genomics Alliance (GIGA), is pictured with fellow organizers supporting the international meeting focused on advancing invertebrate and biodiversity genomics through global collaboration.

1132

Reposted by Anna Bramucci

Earth BioGenome Project 🌍 @ebpgenome.bsky.social · 09/07/2026

📈 Applying MicroFinder to previously assembled bird genomes recovered millions of base pairs of missing DNA. 🧬🖥️ The tool improved chromosome completeness, reassigned misplaced sequences, and revealed genomic regions that had previously been overlooked. #Genomics #GenomeAssembly #OpenScience

A close-up photograph of a Wilson's bird-of-paradise perched on a branch in a tropical forest. Overlaid text explains that MicroFinder uses conserved gene markers to locate hidden microchromosome fragments, with "microchromosome fragments" highlighted in gold. The image illustrates how the tool identifies missing or misplaced regions in bird genome assemblies.

An infographic featuring a Hi-C contact map reproduced from the MicroFinder publication, labeled "Curated microchromosomes." A red arrow highlights a previously unassigned microchromosome fragment, and an inset notes the smallest recovered chromosome is 157 kb. Overlaid text asks, "What did MicroFinder discover?" and explains that some previously considered "complete" bird genome assemblies still contained unassigned microchromosome fragments.

1163

Reposted by Anna Bramucci

Earth BioGenome Project 🌍 @ebpgenome.bsky.social · 13/07/2026

🐐 How do we decide what to sequence next? Genome on a Tree (GoaT) brings together taxonomy, phylogeny, sequencing progress, and sample availability to help identify the species that will have the greatest scientific impact. Has your favorite species been sequenced? 🔍 goat.genomehubs.org #OpenScience

02710

Reposted by Anna Bramucci

Earth BioGenome Project 🌍 @ebpgenome.bsky.social · 13/07/2026

🧬 We know how to generate high-quality reference genomes. The bigger challenge is deciding which species to sequence next. As biodiversity genomics scales, strategic species selection will have as much impact as sequencing technology itself. #Genomics #Biodiversity #EarthBioGenomeProject

An underwater coral reef is illuminated by bright sunlight streaming through the ocean surface. A large orange sea fan coral grows from a rocky outcrop while a school of dark fish swims across the blue water. Overlaid text reads: "We know how to sequence genomes. The bigger challenge is deciding which species to sequence next." A white arrow points to the next slide.

A giant barrel sponge rises from a colorful tropical coral reef surrounded by dozens of small orange reef fish. A dark translucent text box overlays the lower half of the image and reads: "Thousands of genomes have already been generated, but major branches of the Tree of Life remain unsampled." The phrase "Tree of Life" is highlighted in yellow.

1277

Reposted by Anna Bramucci

Earth BioGenome Project 🌍 @ebpgenome.bsky.social · 09/07/2026

🌍 As biodiversity genomics scales toward sequencing all eukaryotic life, producing complete, accurate reference genomes is just as important as generating new ones. Tools like MicroFinder strengthen the foundation for genomics and conservation. 🧬🖥️ Try this tool today: github.com/sanger-tol/M....

0174

Reposted by Anna Bramucci

Earth BioGenome Project 🌍 @ebpgenome.bsky.social · 09/07/2026

🧬 MicroFinder is a new computational tool that helps researchers locate hidden bird microchromosomes by searching for conserved genes rather than relying on chromosome structure alone. It provides a practical way to identify missing genomic regions and assess assembly completeness. #Bioinformatics

A brown goose standing on grass with a blurred green background. Overlaid text reads: "Bird genomes contain dozens of tiny chromosomes called microchromosomes," with "microchromosomes" highlighted in gold. The image introduces one of the key features that makes bird genomes challenging to assemble.

A northern pintail duck swimming on calm water beneath an icy shoreline. Text explains that humans have 46 chromosomes, while birds often have 70–100 chromosomes, many of them tiny microchromosomes. Additional text notes that these small chromosomes are frequently fragmented, misplaced, or missing from genome assemblies, illustrating a major challenge in assembling complete bird genomes.

243

Reposted by Anna Bramucci

Earth BioGenome Project 🌍 @ebpgenome.bsky.social · 09/07/2026

🐦 Why are bird genomes so difficult to assemble? Birds have dozens of tiny, gene-rich microchromosomes that are frequently fragmented, misplaced, or missing from genome assemblies despite containing important genetic information. 📖 Read the publication: lnkd.in/gar-GrKZ #BirdGenomics #Biodiversity

A promotional graphic on a black background featuring a collage of more than 30 brightly colored bird species from around the world, including birds-of-paradise, toucans, parrots, hummingbirds, flamingos, cranes, owls, kingfishers, waterfowl, raptors, and songbirds. The birds are arranged around the centered text, "MicroFinder Is Now Available," with "MicroFinder" in gold and "Is Now Available" in white. The image highlights the diversity of avian species and announces the release of the MicroFinder computational tool for improving bird genome assemblies.

16428

Reposted by Anna Bramucci

Earth BioGenome Project 🌍 @ebpgenome.bsky.social · 08/06/2026

🌍🧬 Interested in biodiversity genome updates? Check out the EBP custom feed on Bluesky and help keep the conversation growing. Add your posts to the feed by referencing biodiversity genomics. 🌱🌎🧬 bsky.app/profile/did:...

0145

Reposted by Anna Bramucci

Earth BioGenome Project 🌍 @ebpgenome.bsky.social · 08/06/2026

🧬❄️ Not every specimen collected becomes a genome. Once identified, species already represented in the project are released, while new or supplementary samples are preserved for sequencing. 🦋🌿 Accurate identification guides every sampling decision. #DarwinTreeOfLife #BiodiversityGenomics

Close-up photograph of a small moth resting on a white daisy with a yellow center. Text overlay reads: “For the Darwin Tree of Life project, specimens need to be identified while still alive — one of the most difficult parts of the workflow.” Additional text lists target groups from the field trip: psyllid bugs, ichneumonid wasps, and chrysomelid beetles. The image highlights the challenge of live specimen identification during biodiversity genomics sampling.

A metallic blue-black oil beetle walks across leaf litter and low vegetation on a woodland floor. Text overlay explains that if a species has already been collected for the project, it is released, while only new, recollected, or supplementary specimens are retained for genome sequencing efforts. The image illustrates the Darwin Tree of Life programme's approach to minimizing specimen collection while obtaining material needed for genome sequencing.

191

Reposted by Anna Bramucci

Earth BioGenome Project 🌍 @ebpgenome.bsky.social · 08/06/2026

🌍🧬 Looking for more biodiversity genomes being generated around the world? Explore our Bluesky Starter Packs to discover and follow EBP-affiliates, sequencing initiatives, and researchers helping build a genomic library of life. Follow the genomes. Follow the science. Follow the global effort. 🌊🌿🦋🍄

153

Reposted by Anna Bramucci

Earth BioGenome Project 🌍 @ebpgenome.bsky.social · 08/06/2026

🧬🐋 Building a genomic library of ocean life begins one species at a time—and grows stronger with every genome. @atlasea.bsky.social @oceangenomelegacy.bsky.social @sangerinstitute.bsky.social @ergabiodiv.bsky.social @vertebrategenomes.bsky.social @invertebrates.bsky.social and many many more 🌊🧬🌍

Marine genomics graphic titled “Unlocking Nature’s Innovations.” The collage features a golden jellyfish, a dense cluster of orange sea stars on the seafloor, a pygmy seahorse attached to coral, and a marine worm among coral structures. Overlaid text explains that marine life has evolved extraordinary solutions over billions of years and that ocean genomes may help drive discoveries in medicine, biotechnology, sustainable materials, and climate resilience.

Marine biodiversity graphic titled “Building a Genomic Library of Ocean Life.” The collage includes microscopic coccolithophores with intricate calcium carbonate structures, a striped juvenile pufferfish, and a lacey siphonophore photographed during NOAA Ocean Exploration’s Beyond the Blue expedition. Overlaid text describes global efforts to sequence marine biodiversity—from whales and sea turtles to corals, kelp, plankton, and deep-sea species—before more biodiversity is lost.

162

Reposted by Anna Bramucci

Earth BioGenome Project 🌍 @ebpgenome.bsky.social · 08/06/2026

🌊🧬Happy World Ocean Day! From whales and sea turtles to corals, kelp, plankton, and deep-sea species, the ocean holds extraordinary biodiversity shaped by billions of years of evolution. EBP-affiliates are generating marine biodiversity genomes to better understand life in our oceans. #WorldOceanDay

Graphic for World Ocean Day featuring a collage of marine species. A humpback whale swims beneath the ocean surface alongside a school of fish and red coral. Below, a sea turtle glides over a colorful coral reef, while a spotted boxfish is shown in close-up. Overlaid text reads: “World Ocean Day. EBP-affiliates are sequencing marine biodiversity to better understand, protect, and sustain ocean life for future generations.”

Educational graphic highlighting the importance of marine genomes. A tiger shark swims above a kelp forest ecosystem filled with fish. An octopus and branching coral are shown in lower panels. Overlaid text reads: “Why marine genomes matter: Ocean genomes help us understand adaptation, resilience, evolution, ecosystem change, and climate response.”

1274

Reposted by Anna Bramucci

Earth BioGenome Project 🌍 @ebpgenome.bsky.social · 04/06/2026

🌍 The challenge is not whether we can sequence diatoms — it is whether we can build the workflows, infrastructure, standards, and international collaborations needed to do it reliably at scale. Working on diatom genomics? Connect with researchers helping build the future of biodiversity genomics. 🤝🧬

Photograph of a researcher aboard a small boat collecting aquatic samples using a plankton net suspended by ropes over open ocean water. The researcher is wearing a gray jacket and knit hat while handling the sampling equipment. The slide title reads, “So, Can We Sequence All Diatom Genomes?”

A text box states:

“Yes, EBP-affiliated projects are already sequencing diatom genomes — but scaling globally will require coordinated infrastructure, new protocols, and international collaboration.”

The phrase “scaling globally” is highlighted in yellow. The image emphasizes the field sampling, infrastructure, and international cooperation needed to expand diatom genome sequencing from individual projects to a global effort spanning thousands of species.

0123

Reposted by Anna Bramucci

Earth BioGenome Project 🌍 @ebpgenome.bsky.social · 04/06/2026

🔬 Many diatoms are hard to sequence because of silica cell walls, low DNA input, repetitive DNA, hybridization, microbial contamination, and genome structures that complicate assembly. One genome is possible. Thousands across diatom diversity is a different challenge. 🧬⚙️🌊 #MicrobialEukaryotes

Microscope image of a filamentous chain of golden-brown diatom cells connected in curved strands. The slide title reads, “Challenge 1: Silica Cell Walls.” A text box at the bottom lists challenges associated with sequencing diatoms:

physically breaking cells open
recovering intact high molecular weight DNA
avoiding DNA fragmentation

The image highlights the rigid silica-based cell walls that make DNA extraction from diatoms particularly difficult.

Collage of microscope images showing several diatom species with different shapes and sizes, including elongated cells, ornate symmetrical forms, and chain-forming species. The slide title reads, “Challenge 2: Tiny Organisms, Huge Sequencing Demands.” A text box explains the scale and capacity challenges associated with diatom genomics:

microscopic organisms
surprisingly large genomes
difficult to culture in large quantities

The slide concludes: “This creates major throughput bottlenecks.” The images illustrate the contrast between the tiny size of individual diatoms and the large amount of biological material often required for high-quality genome sequencing.

Microscope photographs of diatoms arranged around two larger images. The slide title reads, “Challenge 3: Complex Genomes & Mixed Communities.” A text box explains that some diatom species are difficult to sequence and assemble accurately due to:

repetitive DNA
hybridization between species
extra chromosome copies
associated bacteria and algae
unclear species boundaries

The background features elongated and colony-forming diatoms with visible golden-brown chloroplasts and intricate cellular structures. The slide highlights the biological and genomic complexity that can complicate genome assembly, contamination screening, and species identification.

1124

Reposted by Anna Bramucci

Earth BioGenome Project 🌍 @ebpgenome.bsky.social · 04/06/2026

🧬 Diatoms are an extraordinarily diverse group of photosynthetic organisms, with tens of thousands of described species. Yet technical challenges still limit large-scale diatom genome production. EBP projects and biodiversity genomics R&D teams are working to solve them. 🌊🔬 #Diatoms #Biodiversity

Collage of microscopic images showing the remarkable diversity of diatoms. The slide title reads, “Why Is Sequencing Diatom Genomes So Difficult?” with the word “Difficult” highlighted in yellow. The background contains multiple light microscope photographs of different diatom species displaying a wide range of shapes and forms, including elongated needle-like cells, circular forms, rectangular chains, ornate geometric structures, and filamentous colonies. Some cells appear golden-brown due to photosynthetic pigments, while others show intricate silica patterns visible under magnification. The collage emphasizes the extraordinary morphological diversity found across diatoms.

36924

Reposted by Anna Bramucci

Earth BioGenome Project 🌍 @ebpgenome.bsky.social · 30/04/2026

EBP Chair Harris Lewin takes the stage 🧬🌍 Lecture starts at 16:44 — tune in for the big-picture vision behind the Earth BioGenome Project and the global effort to sequence life on Earth. 🎥 www.youtube.com/watch?v=3dkH...

youtube.com

PSW 2535 The Earth BioGenome Project | Harris Lewin

YouTube video by PSW Science

0166

Reposted by Anna Bramucci

Earth BioGenome Project 🌍 @ebpgenome.bsky.social · 22/04/2026

Happy World Earth Day. 🌍🧬 Over 6,000 high-quality genome assemblies—and counting. Thank you to our 64 affiliated projects worldwide for advancing biodiversity genomics and helping bring the hard, hidden, and under-sequenced branches of life into view. #EarthDay #Genomics #Biodiversity

04012

Reposted by Anna Bramucci

Canadian BioGenome Project 🇨🇦 @canadianbiogenome.bsky.social · 22/04/2026

This Earth Day, we’re highlighting how biodiversity genomics is deepening our understanding of life in Canada. 🇨🇦🧬 Powered by CGEn’s sequencing centres in Vancouver, Toronto, and Montréal, this work is accelerating discovery and strengthening Canada’s role in global genome science. #EarthDay2026

12512

Reposted by Anna Bramucci

Earth BioGenome Project 🌍 @ebpgenome.bsky.social · 28/02/2026

Be part of the global biodiversity genomics community 🌍🧬🚀 Join the conversation by referencing biodiversity genomics or 🌍🧬

0146

Reposted by Anna Bramucci

Earth BioGenome Project 🌍 @ebpgenome.bsky.social · 26/02/2026

One genome changed everything. The Human Genome Project showed us that: • reference genomes are scientific infrastructure • open data accelerates discovery • collaboration makes scale possible Those same principles now power a far bigger vision — understanding life across the entire Tree of Life. 🌳🧬

English:
Stylized graphic of a human face formed by colorful horizontal bars (red, yellow, blue, and green) on a dark background. Text reads “Where It All Began” and “Every global genome effort starts with a first success,” with a white arrow pointing forward.
Español:
Gráfico estilizado de una doble hélice de ADN formada por barras horizontales de colores (rojo, amarillo, azul y verde) sobre un fondo oscuro. El texto dice “Where It All Began” y “Every global genome effort starts with a first success,” con una flecha blanca apuntando hacia adelante.

English:
World map illuminated with glowing connection lines across continents, symbolizing global collaboration. Overlaid text explains that the Human Genome Project was the first international effort to assemble an entire genome—3 billion base pairs—and laid the foundation for initiatives like the Earth BioGenome Project to scale from one species to all life.
Español:
Mapa del mundo iluminado con líneas brillantes que conectan los continentes, simbolizando la colaboración global. El texto superpuesto explica que el Proyecto Genoma Humano fue el primer esfuerzo internacional para ensamblar un genoma completo—3 mil millones de pares de bases—y sentó las bases para iniciativas como el Earth BioGenome Project para escalar de una especie a toda la vida.

11411

Reposted by Anna Bramucci

Earth BioGenome Project 🌍 @ebpgenome.bsky.social · 26/02/2026

🌍 ✨Thank you to the global community making this possible. This is collaboration at #global scale. 🚀 👉 go.bsky.app/CRvXDF4 EBP-affiliated projects worldwide are building a shared scientific foundation — powered by collaboration, open #data, and a collective vision to sequence life at scale.

A sperm whale swims upward through deep blue ocean water, its massive head and body illuminated by filtered sunlight from the surface above.
“High-quality genomes at scale reveal:
• the genetic basis of resilience, longevity, and adaptation
• smarter conservation strategies
• lasting biological knowledge for future discovery”

A view of Earth from space shows continents lit by city lights and sunlight along the horizon, representing global collaboration and planetary-scale science.
“The Earth BioGenome Project is a global collaboration working to generate high-quality reference genomes for all eukaryotic species, unlocking the biological knowledge needed to understand, protect, and sustain life on Earth.”

073

Reposted by Anna Bramucci

Earth BioGenome Project 🌍 @ebpgenome.bsky.social · 26/02/2026

Beyond humans lies the eukaryotic frontier. 🧬🌍 Sequencing the human genome showed us how powerful a single reference can be. Now the challenge is scaling that insight across all eukaryotic life — plants, animals, fungi, and the vast unknown diversity of the Tree of Life.

A microscopic image of Volvox, a spherical green colonial alga composed of many small cells arranged in a hollow globe, glowing against a dark background.
“Beyond Humans: The Eukaryotic Frontier”

A collage grid showing diverse eukaryotic life — including fungi, a seahorse, insects, deer, protists, bees, trees, birds, mammals, plants, and marine invertebrates — representing the breadth of species across Earth.
“A moonshot for LIFE on Earth: deliver reference genomes for all known eukaryotic species — 1.8 million — in the next decade.”

A stylized image of Earth encircled by a glowing DNA double helix, surrounded by animals, plants, fungi, and marine life, symbolizing the genetic unity and diversity of life on the planet.
“What secrets are hidden in the DNA of life on Earth?”
image generated by AI

13111

Reposted by Anna Bramucci

Rob Waterhouse @rmwaterhouse.bsky.social · 13/02/2026

Mark Blaxter from @sangerinstitute.bsky.social describes the ambition of the @ebpgenome.bsky.social to #Biology26 in Switzerland

0188

Reposted by Anna Bramucci

ERGA - European Reference Genome Atlas @ergabiodiv.bsky.social · 17/02/2026

🪲🦋🐝 The workshops help build local capacity for pollinator monitoring in Cyprus, training citizen scientists and introducing #genomic tools to support conservation of endemic species @horizoneu.bsky.social @birdlifecyprus.bsky.social @ebpgenome.bsky.social @biogeneurope.bsky.social #citizenscience

063

Reposted by Anna Bramucci

Earth BioGenome Project 🌍 @ebpgenome.bsky.social · 18/02/2026

🧩 From #salamanders with some of the largest, most complex genomes to #invasive species like the American #bullfrog, #amphibian genomics is pushing #sequencing forward — while filling major gaps in the #vertebrate Tree of Life.🧬💻 Big thanks to @crawfordaj.bsky.social for helping shape this post! 🧬✨

Alt EN: Image shows a large green and brown American bullfrog partially submerged in bright green duckweed, with only its head and eyes above the water. Text on image: “Inform invasive species management. Sequencing invasive amphibians, like the American bullfrog, helps track introductions, spread, and rapid adaptation.”
Alt ES: Imagen de una rana toro americana grande, verde y marrón, parcialmente sumergida entre lentejas de agua verde brillante, con la cabeza y los ojos sobre la superficie. Texto en la imagen: “Informan la gestión de especies invasoras. Secuenciar anfibios invasores, como la rana toro americana, ayuda a rastrear introducciones, expansión y adaptación rápida.”

Alt EN: Image shows a smooth, legless caecilian lying on wet soil and leaf litter in a forest floor setting. Text on image: “Fill major gaps in the Tree of Life. Amphibians remain underrepresented in genomic databases. Sequencing them strengthens phylogeny and comparative research across vertebrates.”
Alt ES: Imagen de una cecilia lisa y sin patas sobre suelo húmedo y hojarasca en el suelo del bosque. Texto en la imagen: “Llenan grandes vacíos en el Árbol de la Vida. Los anfibios siguen poco representados en las bases de datos genómicas. Secuenciarlos fortalece la filogenia y la investigación comparativa en vertebrados.”

1104

Reposted by Anna Bramucci

Earth BioGenome Project 🌍 @ebpgenome.bsky.social · 18/02/2026

🌍✨ Why sequence amphibian genomes? 🚨 More than 40% of amphibian species are at risk of extinction. 🧬 Their genomes reveal vulnerability, resilience, and adaptive potential — helping conservation act before populations are lost. 🐸 Proteger a los anfibios es proteger el futuro de la biodiversidad. 💻🧬

Alt EN: Colorful collage of diverse amphibians including frogs, salamanders, newts, caecilians, and an axolotl arranged on a black background. Text on image: "Why sequence amphibian genomes?"
Alt ES: Collage colorido de diversos anfibios incluyendo ranas, salamandras, tritones, cecilias y un ajolote sobre un fondo negro. Texto en la imagen: "¿Por qué secuenciar los genomas de los anfibios?"

Alt EN: A tiny brown frog perched on a person’s fingertip, highlighting its small size and delicate features. Text on image: "More than 40% of amphibian species are at risk of extinction. Genomes help identify genetic vulnerability, resilience, and adaptive potential for targeted conservation."
Alt ES: Una pequeña rana marrón posada sobre la yema del dedo de una persona, destacando su diminuto tamaño y fragilidad. Texto en la imagen: "Más del 40% de las especies de anfibios están en riesgo de extinción. Los genomas ayudan a identificar vulnerabilidad genética, resiliencia y potencial adaptativo para una conservación dirigida."

1254