2b-RAD sequencing of Malus florentina populations reveals strong population structure and signals of balancing selection at disease resistance loci.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Crop wild relatives of Malus domestica represent exceptional value as breeding resources and ornamental trees, nonetheless their natural populations are under threat due to anthropogenic factors. Malus florentina is an apple species endemic to the Balkans and Italy, and our current knowledge on its population genetics and conservation biological status is strongly limited.

Results

In the current study we used a 2b-RAD-seq approach to investigate the population genetic structure and diversity of four M. florentina populations from three different countries. We detected strong genetic differentiation among populations and a substantial risk of inbreeding within them. Furthermore, we identified candidate genes under selection associated with various stress responses

SUBMITTER: Papp D 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12822284 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature