Duckweed genomes and epigenomes underlie triploid hybridization and clonal reproduction.

ABSTRACT: The Lemnaceae (duckweeds) are the world's smallest but fastest-growing flowering plants. Prolific clonal propagation facilitates continuous micro-cropping for plant-based protein and starch production and holds tremendous promise for sequestration of atmospheric CO₂. Here, we present chromosomal assemblies, annotations, and phylogenomic analysis of Lemna genomes that uncover candidate genes responsible for the unique metabolic and developmental traits of the family, such as anatomical reduction, adaxial stomata, lack of stomatal closure, and carbon sequestration via crystalline calcium oxalate. Lemnaceae have selectively lost genes required for RNA interference, including Argonaute genes required for reproductive isolation (the triploid block) and haploid gamete formation. Tripl

SUBMITTER: Ernst E 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12015598 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature