The genome sequence of the honeybee was first reported in 2006 (Weinstock et al. 2006, Wilson 2005). Notable characteristics of this genome include high A+T and CpG contents, the lack of major transposon families, relatively slow evolution, and similarity to vertebrates for circadian rhythm, RNA interference and DNA methylation genes. The honeybee was found to have relatively few genes for innate immunity, detoxification enzymes, cuticle-forming proteins and gustatory receptors, but a fairly high number of genes for odorant receptors. Novel genes were found for nectar and pollen utilization (Weinstock et al. 2006).