Convert FA to FASTA

Understanding FA and FASTA file formats

FA and FASTA are both file formats used to store nucleotide or protein sequences. The FA file extension is a shorthand for FASTA files, and both formats are essentially identical in structure. They contain sequence data with a header line starting with a > symbol, followed by lines of sequence data. The only difference is the file extension: .fa versus .fasta.

Why convert FA to FASTA?

Some bioinformatics tools or databases may require the .fasta extension for compatibility or recognition, even though the content is the same. Converting .fa to .fasta is typically a matter of renaming the file extension.

How to convert FA to FASTA

Since the formats are identical, you can simply rename the file:

• On Windows: Right-click the .fa file, select Rename, and change the extension to .fasta.
• On macOS or Linux: Use the mv command in the terminal:
  mv filename.fa filename.fasta

Best software for FA to FASTA conversion

For batch renaming or more advanced file management, consider using:

• Bulk Rename Utility (Windows): Allows you to change file extensions for multiple files at once.
• Advanced Renamer (Windows): Another powerful batch renaming tool.
• Command line (macOS/Linux/Windows): Use the mv command for quick renaming.

No actual data conversion is needed, as the file content remains unchanged.

Summary

Converting FA to FASTA is a simple process of renaming the file extension, as both formats are structurally identical. Use your operating system's file manager or a batch renaming tool for efficient conversion.