Admixture and environment shape population genetic and phytochemical variation across a conifer hybrid zone...

Ancestry variation in hybrid zones can reflect the causes and genetic basis of reproductive isolation and result in novel phenotypic variation with the potential for extended ecological effects. Junipers (Juniperus) are foundational tree species in many semi-arid landscapes of western North America and often hybridize in zones of secondary contact. Such hybridization can be ecologically significant in foundational tree species, due to the strong genetic control and ecological consequences of plant chemistry. We generated genetic and phytochemical data to analyze hybridization among Juniperus grandis, Juniperus occidentalis, and Juniperus osteosperma in western Nevada and the impact of hybridization on plant chemistry. We used population genomic data [9,125 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), 326 individuals, and 25 populations] to quantify patterns of genetic variation across populations and species and to characterize ancestry variation in hybrids. Although populations within species showed little genetic differentiation, the parental species formed distinct, monophyletic lineages with clear phenotypic and ecological differences. Hybrids occupied intermediate environments, contained ancestry from all three parents, and were mainly F1 or backcross hybrids. Phytochemical data (gas chromatography-mass spectrometry; 163 terpenoid compounds) were likewise analyzed to understand the consequences of hybridization for plant chemistry. The parental species and hybrids displayed distinct phytochemical profiles; hybrids had higher chemical diversity overall, and hybrid terpenoid concentrations were often intermediate or exceeded the range of all the parental species. Our results illustrate that geography and environment shape hybrid ancestry for a syngameon involving three Juniperus species, and that admixture generates novel phytochemical variation likely to have ecological consequences.