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Admixture in the fungal pathogen Blastomyces.
Gaston I Jofre1, Andrius J Dagilis1,2, Victoria E Sepúlveda1
1Department of Biology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA.
Genetics
|September 24, 2024
Summary
Understanding Blastomyces evolution is crucial. This study reveals complex evolutionary processes and gene tree discordance, suggesting potential introgression among Blastomyces species.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Evolutionary Biology
- Genomics
Background:
- Blastomyces is an emerging fungal pathogen with largely unexplored evolutionary processes.
- Understanding its diversity is critical for global health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To infer phylogenetic relationships within the Blastomyces genus.
- To investigate the evolutionary processes driving species diversity.
Main Methods:
- Whole genome sequencing of 99 Blastomyces isolates.
- Utilizing long-read sequencing technologies for two isolates.
- Employing five different phylogenetic inference methods.
Main Results:
- Inference of five distinct phylogenetic trees using different methods.
- Identification of gene tree discordance across the genome.
- Hypothesized introgression influencing species placement.
Conclusions:
- Phylogenetic relationships in Blastomyces are complex and method-dependent.
- Introgression may play a significant role in Blastomyces evolution.
- Systematic global sampling and evolutionary studies are urgently needed.
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