fullgenomes

Full genomes, or fullgenomes, refer to the complete nucleotide sequence of an organism’s genetic material. This includes all chromosomes and, where applicable, organellar genomes such as mitochondria or chloroplasts. In bacteria and archaea, a full genome typically comprises a single circular chromosome and any plasmids; in eukaryotes, it encompasses the nuclear genome plus organelle genomes. A finished genome is gapless and highly contiguous for the analyzed regions, while many projects produce draft or chromosome-scale assemblies that may still contain gaps or unplaced fragments.

The availability of full genomes is central to comparative genomics, phylogenetics, functional annotation, and evolutionary studies. They enable precise gene models, structural variant detection, and comprehensive comparisons across strains or species. Complete genomes also support reference-based analyses, pan-genome studies, and the construction of high-quality databases for biomedical and agricultural research.

Sequencing and assembly methods have evolved to produce full genomes. Long-read technologies such as PacBio and Oxford Nanopore provide longer contiguous sequences that simplify assembly, often combined with short-read data for accuracy. Assembly pipelines include de novo assembly, scaffolding, and polishing, with special attention to repetitive regions, heterozygosity, and ploidy. Quality metrics commonly include coverage, contiguity (N50), completeness (BUSCO), and contamination checks.

Major repositories for full genomes include GenBank, RefSeq, and ENA, which provide standardized formats and metadata. The ongoing move toward chromosome-level and gapless assemblies, aided by advances in sequencing and assembly techniques, continues to expand the availability and utility of fullgenomes across biology.