Species relationships within the genus Vitis based on molecular and morphological data
Jean-Pierre Péros1, Amandine Launay1, André Peyrière1
1UMR AGAP Institut, CIRAD, INRAE, Institut Agro, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France.
Plos One
|July 31, 2023
Summary
This study clarifies grape (Vitis L.) species relationships using DNA analysis. It identifies distinct genetic groups and highlights the significant divergence of North American grapevines, crucial for breeding improved cultivars.
Area of Science:
- Botany and Plant Science
- Genetics and Genomics
- Agricultural Science
Background:
- The grape genus Vitis L. is vital for agriculture, encompassing the cultivated Vitis vinifera and related species valuable for crop improvement.
- Understanding species relationships within Vitis is essential for leveraging genetic resources and addressing challenges in grapevine breeding.
Purpose of the Study:
- To resolve ambiguities in species relationships within the Vitis genus.
- To analyze genetic diversity and phylogenetic structure across a broad range of Vitis accessions.
- To investigate correlations between genetic phylogeny and morphological traits.
Main Methods:
- DNA sequencing to identify single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) across twelve loci.
- Genotyping of 90 Vitis accessions using a high-density SNP array.
- Phylogenetic analyses, heterozygosity measurements, haplotype reconstruction, and chloroplast marker analysis.
- Comparative analysis of genetic data with morphological traits.
Main Results:
- Phylogenetic analyses revealed five distinct clades: three in North America, one in East Asia, and one in Europe (Vitis vinifera).
- Hybrids within and between clades were identified using heterozygosity, haplotype, and chloroplast data, and their exclusion improved species relationship assessment.
- Significant correlations were found between genetic phylogeny and several morphological traits.
- The North American clade, including species like Vitis riparia and Vitis rupestris, demonstrated substantial genetic and morphological divergence from other clades.
Conclusions:
- The study provides a robust phylogenetic framework for the Vitis genus, clarifying species boundaries and evolutionary history.
- The identified genetic divergence in North American Vitis species offers valuable insights for breeding programs seeking novel traits.
- Understanding hybrid influence is critical for accurate Vitis phylogenetics and germplasm utilization.
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