Whole-genome sequence of a flatfish provides insights into ZW sex chromosome evolution and adaptation to a benthic lifestyle

Songlin Chen and colleagues sequenced the whole genomes of a male (ZZ) and a female (ZW) Chinese half-smooth tongue sole, Cynoglossus semilaevis. Their analysis provides insights into the structure and evolution of the sex chromosomes and adaptation to the benthic lifestyle of this flatfish. Genetic sex determination by W and Z chromosomes has developed independently in different groups of organisms. To better understand the evolution of sex chromosomes and the plasticity of sex-determination mechanisms, we sequenced the whole genomes of a male (ZZ) and a female (ZW) half-smooth tongue sole (Cynoglossus semilaevis). In addition to insights into adaptation to a benthic lifestyle, we find that the sex…

• NN
  National Natural Science Foundation of China

  Awards: 2012AA092203, 200903046, 31130057, 41006107, 31072202
• JS
  Japan Society for the Promotion of Science
• SF
  Special Fund for Agro-scientific Research in the Public Interest

  Award: 200903046
• YS
  Yellow Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences