Low-coverage genome sequencing

Low-coverage genome sequencing is a technique where only a small portion of an organism’s DNA is read or analyzed, rather than sequencing the entire genome in detail. This approach provides a rough overview of genetic information, allowing scientists to detect common genetic variations and get an initial sense of the genome’s structure. While it doesn’t capture every detail, it’s faster and less expensive, making it useful for large-scale studies, population genetics, or guiding more detailed future analyses. Essentially, it offers a cost-effective snapshot that helps researchers identify areas of interest for deeper investigation.