Crop Evolution of Foxtail Millet.

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Science
• Genetics
• Evolutionary Biology

Background:

• Foxtail millet is a globally significant crop with a complex history.
• Understanding its domestication and evolution is crucial for crop improvement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review existing studies on foxtail millet domestication, genetic differentiation, and crop evolution.
• To elucidate genetic relationships and evolutionary patterns of key genes.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of intraspecific hybrid pollen semi-sterility.
• Isozyme and DNA marker analysis.
• Single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genotyping.

Main Results:

• Foxtail millet diversity is centered in China, with landraces classifiable into geographical groups.
• Evidence suggests domestication in China, followed by Eurasian spread, though other origins are possible.
• Evolutionary analysis of genes like Waxy, Si7PPO, HD1, SiPRR37, Sh1, SvLes1, and C indicates complex selection patterns.

Conclusions:

• China is identified as a primary center for foxtail millet domestication and diversity.
• The spread and evolution of foxtail millet involved intricate interactions with human and natural selection pressures.