Covering the bases: population genomic structure ofLemna minorand the cryptic speciesL. japonicain Switzerland

• DOI: 10.1101/2024.02.14.580260
• Publication Date: 2024-02-15T03:50:13Z
• Authors: Marc W. Schmid; Aboubakr Moradi; Deborah M. Leigh; Meredith C. Schuman; Sofia J. van Moorsel
• Keywords: Lemna minor; Minor (academic); Population Structure

Abstract Duckweeds, including the common duckweed Lemna minor , are increasingly used to test eco-evolutionary theories. Yet, despite its popularity and near-global distribution, understanding of population structure (and genetic variation therein) is still limited. It essential that this resolved, because impact diversity has on experimental responses scientific understanding. Through whole-genome sequencing, we assessed genomic 23 natural spp. populations from their range in Switzerland. We two distinct analytical approaches, a reference-free kmer approach classical reference-based one. Two clusters were identified across described species distribution L. surprisingly corresponding species-level divisions. The first cluster contained targeted individuals second cryptic species: japonica . Within cluster, well-defined with little intra-population (i.e. within ponds) but high inter-population between ponds). In was significantly weaker subset as low populations. This study revealed more widespread than previously thought. Our findings signify thorough genotype-to-phenotype analyses needed ecology evolution.