Whole-genome Sequencing Reveals Autooctoploidy in Chinese Sturgeon and Its Evolutionary Trajectories

• First chromosome-level genome assembly for the octoploid Chinese sturgeon, revealing a complex autooctoploid structure with multiple multivalent configurations. • Demonstrates that the octoploid genome arose from two rounds of whole-genome duplications, with delayed rediploidization shaping its evolutionary trajectory. • Provides a critical genomic resource for conservation efforts of this critically endangered species and for studying polyploid evolution in fishes. • Resolves long-standing debates on ploidy classification in Acipenseriformes by providing definitive evidence of autooctoploidy.