A genome and tissue-specific transcriptomes of the large-polyp coral,Fimbriaphyllia(Euphyllia)ancora: Recipe for a coral polyp

Abstract

AbstractCoral “polyps” are composed of several tissues; however, their characteristics are largely unexplored. Here we report biological characteristics of the four tissues that comprise polyps: tentacle (Te), mesenterial filament (Me), body wall (Bo), and mouth with pharynx (MP), using comparative genomic, morpho-histological, and transcriptomic analyses of the large-polyp coral,Fimbriaphyllia ancora. A draftF. ancoragenome assembly of 434 Mbp was created. Morpho-histological and transcriptomic characterization of the four tissues showed that they have distinct differences in structure, primary cellular composition, and transcriptional profiles. Tissue-specific, highly expressed genes (HEGs) ofTeare related to biological defense, predation, and coral-algal symbiosis.Meexpresses multiple digestive enzymes, whereasBoexpresses innate immunity and biomineralization-related molecules. Many receptors for neuropeptides and neurotransmitters are expressed inMP. The established dataset and new insights into tissue functions will facilitate a deeper understanding of coral biology.