Polyploidy in the Conifer Genus Juniperus : An Unexpectedly High Rate

Recent research suggests that the frequency of polyploidy may have been underestimated in gymnosperms. One notable example is in the conifer genus , where there are already a few reports of polyploids although data are still missing for most species. In this study, we evaluated the extent of polyplo...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Frontiers in plant science 2019-05, Vol.10, p.676-676
Main Authors: Farhat, Perla, Hidalgo, Oriane, Robert, Thierry, Siljak-Yakovlev, Sonja, Leitch, Ilia J, Adams, Robert P, Bou Dagher-Kharrat, Magda
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
conifers
flow cytometry
genome size
gymnosperms
Juniperus
Life Sciences
Plant Science
polyploidy
Vegetal Biology
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Summary:Recent research suggests that the frequency of polyploidy may have been underestimated in gymnosperms. One notable example is in the conifer genus , where there are already a few reports of polyploids although data are still missing for most species. In this study, we evaluated the extent of polyploidy in by conducting the first comprehensive screen across nearly all of the genus. Genome size data from fresh material, together with chromosome counts, were used to demonstrate that genome sizes estimated from dried material could be used as reliable proxies to uncover the extent of ploidy diversity across the genus. Our analysis revealed that 16 taxa were polyploid, with tetraploids and one hexaploid being reported. Furthermore, by analyzing the genome size and chromosome data within a phylogenetic framework we provide the first evidence of possible lineage-specific polyploidizations within the genus. Genome downsizing following polyploidization is moderate, suggesting limited genome restructuring. This study highlights the importance of polyploidy in , making it the first conifer genus and only the second genus in gymnosperms where polyploidy is frequent. In this sense, represents an interesting model for investigating the genomic and ecological consequences of polyploidy in conifers.
ISSN:1664-462X
1664-462X
DOI:10.3389/fpls.2019.00676