The genome is the complete set of an organism’s genetic material - usually DNA - stored inside its cells. The genome serves as a “blueprint” for the construction and organisation of the organism's body and also contains the instructions for it to function. One of the most important features of the genetic material is that it is inheritable, which allows organisms to pass their characteristics onto the next generations.
The genome stream of BGE aims to sequence full genomes of hundreds of European species, including animals, plants, fungi and microorganisms. This will greatly expand and deepen our knowledge about European biodiversity and help us protect it.