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Abstract Detail



Pteridology

Petlewski, Alaina [1], Li, Fay-Wei [1].

Using sequencing technologies to investigate evolutionary questions in Lycopodiaceae.

The lycophytes represent the earliest diverging extant lineage of vascular plants. As the only homosporous, exosporic branch of this lineage, Lycopodiaceae stands to offer unique insights into vascular plant evolution. However, this group has largely been overlooked. I am working to utilize modern sequencing techniques to understand the evolutionary trajectory and significance of representatives within this group. Specifically, I will discuss sequencing the first homosporous lycophyte genome, untangling the systematics and hybridization potential in the genus Dendrolycopodium, and characterizing the microbial symbionts of both the sporophytes and gametophytes of multiple Lycopodiaceae species.
First, I will discuss the progress made in sequencing a homosporous lycophyte genome. Thus far, the most promising candidate is Diphasiastrum complanatum. Plastid and mitochondrial genomes have been completed using Illumina sequencing data and nuclear genome sequencing efforts are ongoing. The complete genome of D. complanatum will eventually provide invaluable insights into land plant evolution, especially independent transitions between homospory and heterospory, as well as the development of stem-leaf-root anatomy.
Next, I will present preliminary RAD-sequencing data for the genus Dendrolycopodium. Based on field observations by myself and others, hybridization seems rampant within this genus. This does not seem to be unusual for Lycopodiaceae, though. It seems that different genera may have contrasting propensities for homoploid versus polyploid hybridization. By studying the systematics and reticulate relationships in Dendrolycopodium, I aim to add my work to studies conducted on other members of this family (Diphasiastrum, Huperzioideae) and contribute to a greater understanding of the roles of polyploidization and hybridization in lycophyte evolution.
Finally, I will discuss early results from the identification of culturable endophytes from multiple Lycopodiaceae species. I aim to explore how their microbiomes may impact their ecological interactions, distribution, and life cycle.


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1 - Cornell University, Boyce Thompson Institute, 533 Tower Rd, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA

Keywords:
Lycopodiaceae
genomics
Plant microbiomes
systematics
hybridization
evolution.

Presentation Type: Oral Paper
Session: PTER2, Pteridology II
Location: San Pedro 1/Starr Pass
Date: Monday, July 29th, 2019
Time: 1:30 PM
Number: PTER2001
Abstract ID:563
Candidate for Awards:None


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