Genome-wide comparative analysis of channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus)

Abstract

Comparative map is a powerful tool to transfer the genomic information from well-studied model species to non-model species whose genomic resources are limited. Channel catfish is a primary aquaculture species in United States. To better understand the genetic basis of catfish, and to improve genetic breeding and selection, plenty of genomic resources have been developed in catfish. In this dissertation study, over 40,000 BAC end sequences were generated using traditional Sanger sequencing technology. Moreover, millions of physical map contig-specific sequences were generated by using next-generation sequencing technology. Utilizing both of these two valuable genomic resources along with other existed genomic resources including genetic linkage map, BAC-based physical map, and the catfish draft genome sequences, the first genome-wide comparative analysis between catfish and zebrafish was conducted in this study.