A chromosome-level reference genome of the surf parrotfish (Scarus rivulatus)

The parrotfish, Scarus rivulatus, is a widely distributed herbivorous species, that helps maintain reef resilience by controlling algal growth. However, overfishing and reef degradation threaten its populations, and the lack of genomic resources limits studies on its adaptive potential and conservation strategies. In this study, we successfully assembled a high-quality chromosome-level genome for S. rivulatus using a combination of Illumina, Nanopore, and Hi-C technologies. The assembled genome is 1.58 Gb in size, with scaffold N50 lengths reaching 67.2 Mb. Hi-C contact maps anchored approximately 96.2% of the assembled sequences onto 24 chromosomes. Repetitive sequences accounted for 48.84% of the genome. The BUSCO assessment revealed that 97.8% of the expected conserved genes were complete. Integrating three lines of evidence, we predicted 41,823 protein-coding genes, of which 73.91% were functionally annotated in at least one protein database. This chromosome-level genome assembly filled a critical gap in genomic resources for S. rivulatus, providing a valuable foundation for elucidating its adaptive mechanisms in response to coral reef degradation and facilitating genetic breeding.