Parasite-host network analysis provides insights into the evolution of two mistletoe lineages (Loranthaceae and Santalaceae).

ABSTRACT: Mistletoes are ecologically important parasitic plants, with > 1600 species from five lineages worldwide. Mistletoe lineages exhibit distinct patterns of species diversification and host specificity, however, the mechanisms underlying these differences are poorly understood. In this study, we analysed a comprehensive parasite-host network, including 280 host species from 60 families and 22 mistletoe species from two lineages (Santalaceae and Loranthaceae) in Xishuangbanna, located in a biodiversity hotspot of tropical Asia. We identified the factors that predict the infection strength of mistletoes. We also detected host specificity and the phylogenetic signal of mistletoes and their hosts. We found that this interaction network could be largely explained by a model based on the relative a

SUBMITTER: Zhao J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10772182 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature