Chromosome- level genomes of two armyworms, Mythimna separata and Mythimna loreyi, provide insights into the biosynthesis and reception of sex pheromones

Mythimna separata and Mythimna loreyi are global pests of gramineous cereals, heavily controlled with synthetic insecticides. Here, we generated two high-quality chromosome -level genome assemblies for M. separata (688 Mb) and M. loreyi (683 Mb). Our analysis identified Z and W chromosomes, with few genes and abundant transposable elements (TEs) found on the W chromosome. We also observed a recent explosion of long interspersed nuclear elements (LINEs), which contributed to the larger genomes of Mythimna. The two armyworms diverged similar to 10.5 MYA, with only three chromosomes have intrachromosomal rearrangements. Additionally, we observed a tandem repeat expansion of a- amylase genes in Mythimna, which may promote the digestion of carbohydrates and exacerbate their damage to crops. Furthermore, we inferred the sex pheromone biosynthesis pathway for M. separata, M. loreyi and Spodoptera frugiperda. We discovered that M. loreyi and S. frugiperda synthesized the same major constituents of sex pheromones through different pathways. Specifically, the double bonds in the dominant sex pheromone components of S. frugiperda were generated by Delta 9-and ?11- desaturase, while they were generated by Delta 11-desaturase and chain-shortening reactions in M. loreyi. We also identified pheromone receptor (PR) genes and inferred their corresponding components. These findings provide a better understanding of sex pheromone communication and promote the development of a new pest control strategy involving pheromone traps, which are more effective and environmentally friendly than current strategies.

Automated summary

In this study, high-quality chromosome-level genome assemblies were generated for two important pests, Mythimna separata and Mythimna loreyi. The analysis revealed the presence of Z and W chromosomes, with fewer genes and more transposable elements found on the W chromosome. The study also identified a recent expansion of long interspersed nuclear elements and a tandem repeat expansion of a-amylase genes in Mythimna. Furthermore, the synthesis pathways of sex pheromones were inferred, providing insights into pheromone communication and promoting the development of a new pest control strategy involving pheromone traps.