Genome Sequencing of Microtus fortis
The reed vole (Microtus fortis) serves as a significant rodent model, particularly distinguished by its robust natural resistance to Schistosoma japonicum infection. To unravel the genetic basis of this remarkable immunity and other unique biological characteristics, we present the first chromosome-level genome assembly for M. fortis. Employing PacBio HiFi long-read sequencing combined with Hi-C scaffolding techniques, we constructed a high-quality 2.29 Gb genome. This assembly is anchored into 26 pseudomolecules, achieving a contig N50 of 68.89 Mb and incorporating 97.73% of the sequence into scaffolds. The genome demonstrates high completeness, as indicated by a BUSCO score of 96.3% (glires_odb10), and contains a repeat content of 42.93%. This high-quality genome assembly provides an invaluable resource for advancing research into the adaptive evolution and unique biological traits of M. fortis, especially its parasite resistance mechanisms.