# De novo Genome Assembly and Annotation of 12 Fungi Associated with Fruit Tree Decline Syndrome in ON, Canada

## TL;DR

This paper reports the first genome assemblies of fungi linked to fruit tree decline in Ontario, Canada, offering insights into the causes and potential solutions.

## Contribution

The study provides the first publicly available genome assemblies for three fungal species associated with fruit tree decline.

## Key findings

- Genomes of 12 fungi linked to fruit tree decline were sequenced and annotated.
- Three ascomycete species genomes are now publicly available for the first time.
- High-quality reference genomes for six fungal species were generated.

## Abstract

Apple and stone fruit trees are vital components of Ontario’s agricultural landscape. However, since 2016, these trees have been facing alarming mortality rates, exhibiting symptoms collectively referred to as Fruit Tree Decline (FTD) and Rapid Apple Decline (RAD). Despite its widespread occurrence, the exact cause of FTD and RAD remains elusive, with various pathogenic fungi and viruses implicated, along with abiotic stressors such as drought, winter injury and nutrient deficiency. In this study, we sequenced, assembled and annotated the genomes of 12 fungi associated with FTD and RAD syndromes in Ontario, Canada. We present the first and only publicly available assemblies for three ascomycete species including Diplodia intermedia, Diatrype stigma, and Nothophoma quercina. Additionally, we present high-quality reference genome sequences for Diplodia seriata, Didymella pomorum and Neofusicoccum ribis. These genomic resources are valuable for understanding the molecular mechanisms behind FTD and RAD, and for developing strategies for disease prevention and management in fruit trees.