iiinova — where your digital self keeps evolving

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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.”

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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

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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

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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.

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BC Genome Sciences Centre @bcgsc.ca · 22/09/2026

🧬 We’re pleased to welcome Genome BC as a Bronze Sponsor of the 2026 GSC Collaborator Forum! 💻🧬 For 25+ years, genomebc.bsky.social has helped advance genomics research and innovation across BC, funding more than 650 research and innovation projects. #GSCForum2026 #Genomics #GenomicInnovation

Alt text: Promotional graphic for the GSC Collaborator Forum 2026, featuring Bronze Sponsor Genome BC. Genome BC is highlighted for 25 years of advancing genomics research and innovation in British Columbia and for funding more than 650 research and innovation projects in health and the environment. The graphic notes Genome BC’s long-standing collaboration with Canada’s Michael Smith Genome Sciences Centre, combining Genome BC’s role as a funder and research convener with GSC sequencing and bioinformatics expertise. The Forum takes place October 29, 2026, in Vancouver and includes the Sequence to Innovate competition.

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Earth BioGenome Project 🌍 @ebpgenome.bsky.social · 22/09/2026

🌊☀️ Sous l’eau à marée haute. Exposée à l’air à marée basse. Du Canada à la France et à l’Australie, la vie des mares résiduelles fait face à des conditions extrêmes. 🌊 Leurs génomes portent les traces de cette adaptation. 💻🧬 Intertidal life has evolved to survive between land and sea. #Intertidal

English alt text:
A colorful collage of intertidal biodiversity, featuring sea stars, diatoms, limpets, sea anemones, sea urchins, seaweeds, sponges, mussels, sea cucumbers, nudibranchs, barnacles, corals and crabs. Text explains that thousands of species have adapted to survive in this challenging environment and that their genomes carry traces of life at the boundary between land and sea.

Texte alternatif en français :
Collage coloré illustrant la biodiversité intertidale, avec des étoiles de mer, diatomées, patelles, anémones de mer, oursins, algues, éponges, moules, concombres de mer, nudibranches, balanes, coraux et crabes. Le texte explique que des milliers d’espèces se sont adaptées pour survivre dans cet environnement exigeant et que leurs génomes portent les traces de la vie à la frontière entre terre et mer.

English alt text:
Three photographs compare intertidal life from different parts of the world: bright red sea anemones on the Australian coast, purple sea stars on Canada’s Pacific coast, and a large red sea anemone on the French Atlantic coast. Text emphasizes that although these regions have different species and climates, organisms living in their intertidal zones share the challenge of surviving constantly changing conditions.

Texte alternatif en français :
Trois photographies comparent la vie intertidale dans différentes régions du monde : des anémones de mer rouge vif sur la côte australienne, des étoiles de mer violettes sur la côte pacifique du Canada et une grande anémone de mer rouge sur la côte atlantique française. Le texte souligne que, malgré des espèces et des climats différents, les organismes de ces zones intertidales partagent un même défi : survivre à des conditions en changement constant.

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Earth BioGenome Project 🌍 @ebpgenome.bsky.social · 22/09/2026

🌎 From tidepools to oceans, every genome reveals another piece of life on Earth. 🌊🧬 EBP is working with scientists worldwide toward reference genomes across the Tree of Life. 💻🧬 Séquencer la biodiversité. Préserver son avenir. 🌍🧬 Sequencing biodiversity. Securing its future. #BiodiversityGenomics

English alt text:
Infographic showing how intertidal species adapt to extreme environmental conditions. A sea star represents large temperature fluctuations, mussels represent exposure to air and desiccation, a sea anemone represents changing salinity, and a crab represents low oxygen levels in isolated tide pools. The graphic explains that studying their genomes can reveal how coastal biodiversity adapts and may respond to rapidly changing environments.

Texte alternatif en français :
Infographie montrant comment les espèces intertidales s’adaptent à des conditions environnementales extrêmes. Une étoile de mer illustre les fortes variations de température, des moules l’exposition à l’air et la dessiccation, une anémone de mer les variations de salinité et un crabe les faibles niveaux d’oxygène dans les mares isolées. L’étude de leurs génomes peut aider à comprendre comment la biodiversité côtière s’adapte et pourrait réagir à des environnements en pleine transformation.

English alt text:
Colorful intertidal scene filled with sea stars, anemones and other marine life. Text explains that from tide pools to oceans, each genome reveals part of the story of life on Earth and highlights the Earth BioGenome Project’s goal of creating reference genomes for all known eukaryotic species. The closing message reads: “Sequencing biodiversity. Securing its future.”

Texte alternatif en français :
Scène intertidale colorée présentant des étoiles de mer, des anémones et d’autres organismes marins. Le texte explique que, des mares intertidales aux océans, chaque génome révèle une partie de l’histoire de la vie sur Terre et souligne l’objectif du Earth BioGenome Project de créer des génomes de référence pour toutes les espèces eucaryotes connues. Le message final est : « Séquencer la biodiversité. Pour préserver son avenir.

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Earth BioGenome Project 🌍 @ebpgenome.bsky.social · 22/09/2026

🌊🧬 Que peuvent nous révéler les génomes des mares intertidales du monde entier? À chaque marée, la vie fait face à des changements de température, de salinité et d’oxygène. Et pourtant, des milliers d’espèces se sont adaptées pour y survivre. #Biodiversité #Génomique @atlasea.bsky.social

English:
Collage of colorful intertidal life, including sea anemones, sea urchins, sea stars, mussels, and rocky tide pools. French text asks: “What can the genomes of the world’s intertidal zones reveal to us?”

Français :
Collage coloré de la vie intertidale, comprenant des anémones de mer, des oursins, des étoiles de mer, des moules et des mares rocheuses. Le texte demande : « Que peuvent nous révéler les génomes des mares intertidales du monde entier?

English:
Rocky intertidal habitats shown under changing tidal conditions, with seaweeds, anemones, barnacles, mussels, and sea stars. Text emphasizes how life here changes from hour to hour: underwater at high tide and exposed at low tide, while experiencing shifts in temperature and salinity.

Français :
Habitats intertidaux rocheux présentés sous différentes conditions de marée, avec des algues, des anémones, des balanes, des moules et des étoiles de mer. Le texte souligne que la vie y change d’heure en heure : sous l’eau à marée haute et exposée à marée basse, avec des variations de température et de salinité.

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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. 🌍

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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.”

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

🧬 There is no one-size-fits-all pipeline for insect genomes. Tiny bodies can mean very little DNA. Genome size, repetitive DNA, high heterozygosity & complex microbiomes can all create challenges. Researchers are developing new approaches to unlock genomes across the Tree of Life. 🌳 #TreeOfLife

Collage showing a wide variety of insects, including moths, beetles, bees, mantises, and other species. Text explains that there is no one-size-fits-all pipeline for insect genomes because factors such as body size, genome size, repetitive DNA, heterozygosity, and complex microbiomes create different sequencing challenges.

Close-up of a tiny insect approximately 0.5 mm long. Text explains that a single insect may not provide enough DNA for all the libraries needed to build a high-quality genome, requiring specialized extraction, sequencing, and assembly approaches.

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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.

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Earth BioGenome Project 🌍 @ebpgenome.bsky.social · 02/09/2026

🐦🧬 What does it take to complete the genome of a songbird? The Vertebrate Genomes Project has produced the first complete, fully phased reference genome of the zebra finch (𝘛𝘢𝘦𝘯𝘪𝘰𝘱𝘺𝘨𝘪𝘢 𝘨𝘶𝘵𝘵𝘢𝘵𝘢). Getting there took more than simply generating more sequence. #T2T #VGP #Genomics #GenomeAssembly

A male zebra finch with a bright red-orange beak, orange cheek patch, striped chest, and spotted brown wings. Text asks, “What does it take to complete the genome of a songbird?” and explains that the Vertebrate Genomes Project produced the first truly complete, fully diploid, fully phased reference genome of the zebra finch (Taeniopygia guttata).

A male zebra finch standing on rocky ground. Text explains that bird genomes are relatively small, but some of their tiniest chromosomes are difficult to sequence. The complete zebra finch genome revealed 7 macrochromosomes, 21 microchromosomes, and 11 tiny dot chromosomes.

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

This is why we need to think beyond individual species. Sequencing ecological communities could help us understand how species interact, how ecosystems respond to change, and what makes them resilient. Every reference genome is valuable. Together, they help us understand life as a connected system.

Alt text: Close-up of a mayfly clinging to a dew-covered blade of grass against a soft green background. Text reads, “Each genome tells one story. Together they reveal the biology of an ecosystem.”

Alt text: A kingfisher diving toward the surface of a pond with its wings spread and beak entering the water. Text reads, “One genome decodes a species. Thousands of genomes explain an ecosystem.”

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Earth BioGenome Project 🌍 @ebpgenome.bsky.social · 27/08/2026

🌍🧬 Better genomes → better science. Reference-quality genomes help us compare species, understand evolution, and protect biodiversity. By building these resources across the tree of life, EBP is creating genomic infrastructure for future biological discovery. #Genomics #BiodiversityGenomics #EBP

Collage illustrating how reference-quality genomes support research. A platypus represents understanding evolution; a leopard, snow leopard, and lion represent comparing species; and a black-footed ferret represents protecting biodiversity.

Collage of diverse life, including a flowering plant, fruit fly, zebrafish, nematodes, humans, and a mouse. Text explains that reference-quality genomes provide scientific infrastructure for future discoveries and that the Earth BioGenome Project is building genomic infrastructure for future biological research.

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Earth BioGenome Project 🌍 @ebpgenome.bsky.social · 27/08/2026

🧬 Why do high-quality reference genomes matter? Draft genomes can contain gaps, errors and fragmented sequences — potentially hiding important biology. 💻🧬 High-quality references give us a clearer, more complete picture — and a stronger foundation for discovery. #Genomics #EarthBioGenomeProject

An African elephant standing in a grassy landscape, shown with sections of its body missing or fragmented like an incomplete puzzle. Text reads, “A genome isn’t useful simply because it’s assembled. Missing, fragmented, or inaccurate genomes can hide important biological information.”

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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.”

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BC Genome Sciences Centre @bcgsc.ca · 19/08/2026

🧬🖥️Joining us for the GSC Collaborator Forum on October 29, 2026? Consider applying to our third Sequence to Innovate Competition! Pitch your sequencing project in a 2-min rapid-fire talk for the chance to receive up to $15,000 CAD in sequencing support from the GSC. 🏆 🔗 tinyurl.com/S2Innovate

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BC Genome Sciences Centre @bcgsc.ca · 19/08/2026

🧬🖥️ Did you join us for last year’s GSC Collaborator Forum? 🧬 We’re back Oct. 29 with this year’s theme: “Where Omics Expertise Meets Opportunity.” Join us in Vancouver for a day of genomics, technology, innovation & connection! 🔗 www.bcgsc.ca/2026-collabo... #Biotechnology #PrecisionMedicine

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Bioplatforms Australia @bioplatformsaus.bsky.social · 19/08/2026

Launching the Australian Sentinel Species Genomics Initiative 🌿 A new collaboration between Bioplatforms and Minderoo Foundation will harness genomics to better understand ecosystem resilience, environmental change and early biological signals of stress. Learn more: bioplatforms.com/project/sent...

bioplatforms.com

Sentinel Species Genomics Initiative - Bioplatforms Australia

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Ocean Genome Legacy @oceangenomelegacy.bsky.social · 19/08/2026

After surveying Canoe Beach, participants in Taxonomy Summer Camp & Bioblitz then explored the marine biodiversity of Cunner's Ledge! Did you know that this area of Nahant, MA, is composed of rocks over 500 million years old? #NUexperience #COSconnects #TaxonomySummerCamp #Bioblitz

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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.

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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.

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

🌍🧬 VGP Phase I represents a truly global effort, bringing together 26+ organizations and numerous Earth BioGenome Project-affiliated initiatives. 🐢 Around 25% of analyzed species are Vulnerable to Critically Endangered, creating an important resource for conservation genomics. #ConservationGenomics

Close-up photograph of a tuatara surrounded by green foliage. Text reads: “Eight Years of Innovation.” Eight years of advances in sequencing, assembly, phasing, and genome curation transformed vertebrate genomics. Today, VGP provides a reference resource spanning more than 500 million years of vertebrate evolution.

Collage of threatened vertebrate species on a dark background, including a rhinoceros, basking shark, kākāpō, African wild dog, poison frog, sea turtle, pangolin, and harpy eagle. Text reads: “Reference Genomes for Conservation.” Nearly 25% of VGP Phase I species are threatened.

Underwater photograph of several manta rays swimming through blue ocean water. Text reads: “Building the Foundation for the Future.” The 816 reference genomes generated by VGP Phase I will power discoveries in evolution, biodiversity, conservation, and medicine for years to come.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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

🌳 Thousands of genomes have been generated, yet major branches of the Tree of Life remain unsampled. Some species are the sole surviving representatives of millions of years of unique evolutionary history. Sequencing them can fill some of the largest remaining gaps in our understanding of life.

A close-up photograph of a brown, armored lizard with rough, bumpy scales perched on a moss-covered rock against a dark background. Overlaid text reads: "Some species are the sole surviving representatives of entire evolutionary lineages." The phrase "evolutionary lineages" is highlighted in yellow. A second text box reads: "The challenge is knowing where to look."

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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.

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Vertebrate Genomes Project @vertebrategenomes.bsky.social · 14/07/2026

Happy Shark Awareness Day! Today, we’re highlighting a few of the incredible shark species whose genomes have been sequenced for the VGP. Each of these species helps expand our understanding of shark evolution, biodiversity, and conservation.

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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

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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.

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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

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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.

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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....

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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.

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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."

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Earth BioGenome Project 🌍 @ebpgenome.bsky.social · 09/06/2026

Many sloth retrocopies are linked to mitochondrial function, energy production, and metabolism. That makes the finding especially interesting for a species famous for conserving energy, moving slowly, and living life at a very different pace. 🦥 #EvolutionaryBiology #GenomeScience #Xenarthra

A sloth hangs upside down from a tree branch in a tropical setting, surrounded by blurred green foliage. Close-up views of its curved claws and shaggy fur are visible. Overlaid text explains that among thousands of retrocopies identified in xenarthran genomes, researchers found 38 with strong evidence of potential biological function, many associated with mitochondrial activity, energy production, and metabolism.

A sloth hangs from branches among dense green leaves in a tropical forest canopy. Its long limbs stretch between branches as it rests above the foliage. Overlaid text states that the genomic patterns observed suggest retrotransposition may have contributed to the evolution of the sloth's low-energy lifestyle by influencing genes involved in metabolism and energy use.

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Earth BioGenome Project 🌍 @ebpgenome.bsky.social · 09/06/2026

🦥🧬 What can sloth genomes teach us about evolution? New chromosome-level genomes from sloths and anteaters are helping researchers study xenarthrans — one of the most distinctive branches of the mammalian tree. 📖 Read the press release: tinyurl.com/3n62vy4v @sangerinstitute.bsky.social

Composite image showing a giant anteater walking along a log above a three-toed sloth hanging from a tree branch. Overlaid text reads: “Sloths and anteaters may look very different — but their genomes reveal a surprising evolutionary connection.” The background features a lush green forest environment.

A three-toed sloth hangs upside down from a tree branch in a tropical forest. Its long curved claws grip the branch as sunlight filters through surrounding vegetation. Overlaid text explains that xenarthrans are one of the most unusual branches of the mammal family tree and that the genomic basis of many of their distinctive adaptations remains poorly understood.

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