Abstract Detail

Molecular Ecology and Evolution

Hawkins, Angela [1], Pepper, Alan [2].

A genotyping-by-sequencing (GBS) approach to map QTL affecting serpentine adaptation in Caulanthus amplexicaulis var. barbarae (Brassicaceae).

Recent advances in molecular genetic methods have revolutionized ecological research and helped molecular ecologists investigate the genetic basis of adaptation. Understanding the adaptive mechanisms that allow survival in harsh edaphic environments has long been of interest to many plant biologists. Serpentine soils are derived from ultramafic rock and usually have extremely low levels of essential plant nutrients (e.g. N, P, Ca) and very high to toxic levels of heavy metals (e.g. Ni). Distribution of serpentine soil is ubiquitous but patchy, and outcrops are often home to many endemic plant species. In California, serpentine soils account for approximately 1.5% of the total land; however this area is home to 13% of all endemic flora. The Streptanthoid Complex (Brassicaceae, tribe Thelypodieae) is a highly diverse group with approximately 60 taxa, representing at least 6 genera, many which are adapted to harsh or extreme environments. The mechanisms by which Caulanthus amplexicaulis var. barbarae (CAB), a serpentine endemic plant, has not only adapted to, but thrives in such soils are being investigated. By comparing CAB to its non-serpentine sister species, Caulanthus amplexicaulis var. amplexicaulis (CAA), the genetic and phenotypic variation that underlies adaptation to serpentine environments will be elucidated. A novel, highly simplified genotyping by sequencing (GBS) method using F2 progeny of crosses between the two ecologically distinct parents was employed to obtain high resolution map positions for QTL affecting serpentine related traits such as tolerance to high levels of nickel and low levels of calcium. Preliminary QTL analysis based on these results will be presented, and this information will be integrated with ongoing efforts to sequence the genomes and transcriptomes of CAA and CAB.

Broader Impacts:

1 - Texas A & M University, Biological Sciences, Texas A&M University Dept. Of Biology, 3258 TAMUS, College Station, TX, 77843-3258, USA
2 - Department of Biology, Texas A&M University, TAMUS 3258, College Station, TX, 77843, USA

Keywords:
serpentine
Brassicaceae
genotyping by sequence
quantitative trait loci.

Presentation Type: Oral Paper:Papers for Topics
Session: 46
Location: Newberry/Riverside Hilton
Date: Wednesday, July 31st, 2013
Time: 3:15 PM
Number: 46007
Abstract ID:656
Candidate for Awards:Margaret Menzel Award