Lisbon university sequences reference genome of Azorean bullfinch

Researchers at the University of Lisbon's Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Changes have published the first reference genome of the priolo, a bird endemic to the Azores once nearly driven to extinction by habitat loss. Around 1,000 individuals survive today, mostly in São Miguel's laurel forest, but the species remains classified as vulnerable and shows low genetic diversity. The genome, built from blood samples of an adult female, will help track genetic diversity and guide conservation and habitat restoration efforts led by SPEA Açores and the regional government. The work is part of the European Reference Genome Atlas initiative.