The researchers generated a high-quality reference genome sequence (~261Mb), with 96% genome sequences anchored on 12 chromosomes based upon BAC-based physical maps. After comprehensive analysis, they found that the compact genome of O. brachyantha was caused by the silencing of LTR (Long terminal Repeats) retrotransposons and massive internal deletions of ancient elements.

Jinfeng CHEN et al., Nature Communications, March 12, doi:10.1038/ncomms2596