SU contributes to historic genome sequencing of endangered Visayan spotted deer
In a groundbreaking achievement for Philippine conservation and genomics, Silliman University (SU) researchers played a crucial role in sequencing and assembling the first draft genome of the Visayan spotted deer (Rusa alfredi), one of the rarest deer species in the world.
This milestone effort was a collaboration with the University of the Philippines – Philippine Genome Center Visayas (PGC Visayas) and other partner institutions.
The Visayan spotted deer, an endemic species once widely found on the islands of Panay, Guimaras, Negros, Cebu, and Masbate, is now critically endangered. Despite its status, no prior genomic information was available for the species or its closely related genus Rusa. This pioneering study provides crucial genetic insights that can support conservation efforts and scientific research.
PGC Visayas and affiliate researchers from UP Visayas in Miagao, Iloilo, volunteered to sequence the deer’s genome. Their goal was to provide molecular insights that can enhance conservation strategies and ensure the long-term survival of the species.
Assistant Professor Persie Q. Sienes (3rd from left) collects tissue samples from captive-bred Visayan spotted deer at the SU CENTROP Facility in Daro, Dumaguete City. He is assisted by Dr. Robert S. Guino-o II (2nd from left) and CENTROP head zookeeper Lou Jean C. Cerial (left). (Photo by CENTROP)
The research team included Ma. Carmel F. Javier, Albert C. Noblezada, and Dr. Victor Marco Emmanuel N. Ferriols from PGC Visayas; Persie Mark Q. Sienes, Dr. Robert S. Guino-o, and Dr. Nadia Palomar-Abesamis from Silliman University; Dr. Maria Celia D. Malay from the University of the Philippines Diliman – Marine Science Institute; and Dr. Carmelo S. del Castillo from the University of the Philippines Visayas – National Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology.
The paper, titled “Draft genome of the endangered Visayan spotted deer (Rusa alfredi), a Philippine endemic species,” was published in Gigabyte Journal on February 24, 2025. The study utilized Illumina short-read sequencing technology to assemble the first-ever draft genome of the Visayan spotted deer, achieving a 2.52 Gb total genome length and a 95.5% completeness score. These findings highlight the deer’s close evolutionary relationship with the genus Cervus.
A male Visayan spotted deer taken by Kyr Andreu Patria.
SU has been at the forefront of conservation efforts for the Visayan spotted deer through its Department of Biology and the Center for Tropical Conservation Studies (CENTROP). The university has long spearheaded initiatives to protect and restore wild populations, as well as maintain captive breeding programs aimed at sustaining the species.
For further information, interested parties may contact Silliman University’s Department of Biology or CENTROP to learn more about ongoing conservation programs and future research initiatives.
