Assessing Genetic Variation in Guadua angustifolia Through RAD-Seq Analysis

Area of Science:

• Genetics
• Plant Biology
• Conservation Biology

Background:

• Guadua angustifolia is an ecologically and economically important native bamboo species in Colombia.
• Previous studies have explored its characteristics, but genetic diversity in Nariño remained unevaluated.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the genetic diversity and population structure of Guadua angustifolia in six natural populations in Nariño, Colombia.
• To identify genomic regions with high SNP density and conserved genes.

Main Methods:

• Restriction site-associated DNA sequencing (RADseq) was employed on 48 individuals from six populations.
• Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were identified and analyzed for heterozygosity, inbreeding coefficients, and population structure.

Main Results:

• A total of 224,996 high-quality SNPs were identified.
• Observed heterozygosity ranged from 0.398 to 0.78, with negative inbreeding coefficients indicating outcrossing.
• Most genetic variation (92.54%) was within individuals, with low population differentiation (7.46%).
• Two main genetic clusters were identified, and specific chromosomes showed high SNP density.

Conclusions:

• Guadua angustifolia in Nariño exhibits significant genetic diversity and predominantly outcrossing reproduction.
• Findings provide crucial data for conservation planning and targeted breeding programs for this non-model tropical species.
• Identification of high SNP density regions offers insights into genomic variability.