Evolutionary History of Potatoes and Tomatoes
Author Information
Author(s): Rodriguez Flor, Wu Feinan, Ané Cécile, Tanksley Steve, Spooner David M
Primary Institution: University of Wisconsin-Madison
Hypothesis
Do potatoes and tomatoes have a single evolutionary history, and what proportion of the genome supports this history?
Conclusion
The study confirms that DNA sequences from different parts of the genome are useful in phylogenetic studies to avoid bias in sampling.
Supporting Evidence
- The study highlights the utility of using DNA sequences from different parts of the genome in phylogenetic studies.
- 11–18 loci are sufficient to reveal the dominant evolutionary history in potatoes and tomatoes.
- Phylogenetic analyses showed a single predominant history for potatoes when total evidence was invoked.
Takeaway
This study looks at how potatoes and tomatoes are related by examining their DNA. It found that they share a common history, but there are also different stories about how they evolved.
Methodology
The study used conserved orthologous set (COSII) nuclear loci to analyze phylogenetic relationships among 30 species, including 29 diploid Solanum species and Datura inoxia as an outgroup.
Potential Biases
Potential biases could arise from using a wrong model of sequence evolution or from biological processes such as hybridization.
Limitations
The study suggests that more loci would be needed to discern the distribution of gene genealogies in more depth.
Participant Demographics
The study analyzed 30 species, including wild and cultivated potatoes and tomatoes.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.0016–0.0075
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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