Cryptic divergence in and evolutionary dynamics of endangered hybrid Picea brachytyla sensu stricto in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The visual similarities observed across various plant groups often conceal underlying genetic distinctions. This occurrence, known as cryptic diversity, underscores the key importance of identifying and understanding cryptic intraspecific evolutionary lineages in evolutionary ecology and conservation biology.

Results

In this study, we conducted transcriptome analysis of 81 individuals from 18 natural populations of a northern lineage of Picea brachytyla sensu stricto that is endemic to the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. Our analysis revealed the presence of two distinct local lineages, emerging approximately 444.8 thousand years ago (kya), within this endangered species. The divergence event aligns well with the geographic and climatic oscillations that occurred across th

SUBMITTER: Lu S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11656881 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature