Long-distance gene flow and recombination shape the evolutionary history of a maize pathogen.

ABSTRACT: The evolutionary history of crop pathogens is shaped by a complex interaction of natural and anthropogenic factors. The fungus Colletotrichumgraminicola causes maize anthracnose which results in significant yield losses worldwide. We conducted a comprehensive investigation into the evolutionary genomics of C.graminicola using a collection of 212 isolates from 17 countries across five continents. Genomic analyses supported the existence of three geographically isolated genetic lineages, with a significant pattern of isolation by distance. We identified two distinct gene flow patterns, driven by short- and long-distance dispersal, likely resulting from the natural spread of the pathogen and the exchange of contaminated seeds. We present evidence of genetic introgression between

SUBMITTER: Rogerio F 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11882024 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature