Metarhizium acridum ARSEF 324 diploid genome sequencing and assembly

Genome sequencing, assembly resolution of the haploid genome, and gene annotation of this locust-specific pathogenic fungus. The project worked to resolve the haploid assembly in order to study patterns of ploidy variation among this species complex. These are important entomopathogenic biocontrol agents used for the control of grasshoppers in agricultural systems as an alternative to chemical control. We used single-molecule real-time (SMRT) sequencing technology to complete a high-quality assembly of ARSEF 324. The genome assembly and the inferred diploid state, can shed light on past research on this strain and could fuel future investigation into the fitness landscape of aberrant ploidy levels, in the context of biocontrol agents.