ERGA-BGE chromosome-level genome assembly of the giant stream lacewing  Osmylus fulvicephalus (Scopoli, 1763).

Abstract

The giant stream lacewing, Osmylus fulvicephalus (Scopoli, 1763), is a widespread European species belonging to the insect order Neuroptera. Its cryptic larvae are predators found at the banks of streams and smaller rivers where they use their piercing, lance-shaped stylets to inject venom into their arthropod prey. Here, we present the reference genome of the giant stream lacewing as a crucial resource for uncovering the genetic basis of venom evolution in Neuroptera. The chromosome-level genome encompasses 674.7 Mb and is composed of 60 contigs and 24 scaffolds where 99.2% of the assembly is distributed among the 6 contiguous chromosomal pseudomolecules and two sex chromosomes (X and Y). Contig and scaffold N50 have a value of 51.5 Mb and 116.2 Mb, respectively. This reference genome is the first genomic resource from the family of lance lacewings, providing valuable data for clarifying the phylogenetic placement of the family Osmylidae within Neuroptera.