Ailuropoda melanoleuca, the giant panda, is an iconic endangered species native to China. Its genome sequencing aids in conservation efforts and understanding panda biology, evolution, and dietary specialization. 10.1038/nature08696 (Dec 13, 2009)
Genomic interest areas: Extinction risk
Bornean orangutan
Pongo pygmaeus, the Bornean orangutan, is an endangered great ape species found in Borneo. Its genome sequencing aids in understanding primate evolution, behavior, and conservation efforts. 10.1038/nature09687 (Jan 26, 2011)
Iberian lynx
Lynx pardinus, the Iberian lynx, is a critically endangered wild cat species native to the Iberian Peninsula. Its genome sequencing aids in conservation efforts and understanding felid genetics and evolution. 10.1186/s13059-016-1090-1 (Dec 14, 2016)
Honey bee
Apis mellifera, the western honeybee, plays a crucial role in pollination and honey production. Its genome sequencing aids in understanding bee biology, behavior, and factors affecting bee health. 10.1038/nature05260 (Oct 26, 2006)
North Island brown kiwi
Apteryx mantelli, the North Island brown kiwi, is a flightless bird species native to New Zealand. Its genome sequencing aids in understanding bird evolution, adaptation, and conservation efforts. 10.1186/s13059-015-0711-4 (Jul 23, 2015)
African savanna elephant
Loxodonta africana, the African elephant, is the largest land mammal species. Its genome sequencing aids in understanding elephant genetics, evolution, and conservation efforts. 10.1038/s41597-023-02729-4 (Jan 11, 2024)
Tasmanian devil
Sarcophilus harrisii, the Tasmanian devil, is a carnivorous marsupial found only in Tasmania, Australia. Its genome sequencing aids in understanding marsupial genetics, evolution, and conservation efforts. 10.1016/j.cell.2011.11.065 (Feb 17, 2012)
Vaquita
Phocoena sinus, the vaquita, is the world’s most endangered marine mammal. Its genome provides insights into conservation strategies for this critically endangered porpoise. 10.1111/1755-0998.13284 (Oct 22, 2020)
Amur tiger
Panthera tigris altaica, the Amur tiger, is a critically endangered tiger subspecies found in the Russian Far East. Its genome sequencing aids in conservation efforts and understanding felid genetics and evolution. 10.1038/ncomms3433 (Sep 17, 2013)
Lion
Panthera leo, the lion, is a large carnivorous cat species found in Africa and Asia. Its genome sequencing aids in understanding felid genetics, evolution, and conservation efforts. 10.1038/ncomms3433 (Sep 17, 2013)