Whole genome sequencing, assembly, and functional annotation of Hyphopichia burtonii Y951 isolated from Vitis vinifera L. cv Cabernet Sauvignon grape must

Abstract Hyphopichia burtonii is a non-conventional yeast present in diverse environments including bread, cured meat, grape must, zebra dove droppings and corn weevil. Strains derived from different environments display different traits. However, limited information exists on the genomic diversity of this species. Here we present the genome of H. burtonii Y951 strain isolated from grape must and proven to have antifungal activity against various grapevine fungal pathogens. The genome was sequenced using PacBio long-read technology, and a high-quality de novo genome assembly was generated using the Flye assembler. The genome was found to be 12.4 Mb, with a GC content of 34.96% and 99.3% completeness based on BUSCO assessment. Gene prediction identified a total of 5 249 protein-encoding genes, which were functionally classified using gene ontology terms, revealing clusters of genes grouped by their biological functions. The data further reveal diverse genes involved in carbohydrate metabolism, fermentation and aroma compounds production, as well as a repertoire of biosynthetic gene clusters relevant in fungal interactions. Genome rearrangements provide the basis for intraspecific variability in some metabolic traits. This comprehensive genomic characterization provides valuable insight into the molecular basis of H. burtonii’s biology and establishes a resource for future functional and applied research.