CANBERRA, July 23 (Xinhua) -- Australia launched Genome Tracker on Wednesday to monitor progress in sequencing the genomes of over 250,000 catalogued species.
The new Genome Tracker dashboard, part of the Australian Reference Genome Atlas (ARGA), reveals that only 2 percent of the country's species have at least one sequenced genome, according to the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO), Australia's national science agency.
"Whole genome sequencing for plants and animals provides insights for ecology, conservation biology, agriculture and biosecurity," said Kathryn Hall, project lead at CSIRO.
Genome Tracker highlights both well-represented and under-sequenced branches of the tree of life, offering a clear overview of where further research is urgently needed, Hall said.
By highlighting genetic adaptations and low coverage in older taxonomic branches, Genome Tracker helps deepen understanding of how Australian species have evolved and adapted, she said.
Key milestones in Australia's genomic research include the Tasmanian Devil and Tammar Wallaby, sequenced for cancer and antimicrobial studies, the Regent Honeyeater and Numbat for genetic diversity and dietary insights, and recent genomes like the Orange-bellied Parrot and Southern Corroboree Frog supporting conservation of endangered species.
The ARGA platform, including Genome Tracker, brings together genomic, taxonomic, and ecological data, allowing researchers to filter and search information to track the genetic records of Australian species, according to CSIRO. ■
