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Evolutionary relationships of diploid Hieracium species: a key to diversification of apomictic polyploids?

Name: Evolutionary relationships of diploid Hieracium species: a key to diversification of apomictic polyploids?
Researchers: Quiros de la Peña Begoña (researcher)
Provider: GA UK
Number: No. 24124
Realization from: 2024
Realization to: 2026
Summary: Hieracium s.str. (hawkweed, Asteraceae) is a highly diverse genus known for its notorious taxonomic complexity, which is caused by widespread past interspecific hybridisation. This process has been closely linked to polyploidisation (multiplication of a diploid set of chromosomes) and apomixis (asexual reproduction by seeds), which has ensured the persistence of otherwise sterile hybrids. As a result, apomictic polyploid species dominate the taxonomic diversity in the genus, while their diploid sexual progenitors are substantially rarer. Although sexual diploids have played a key role in the formation of apomictic polyploids, their phylogenetic relationships remain largely unresolved. Understanding the evolution and actual diversity of diploid species is crucial for accurately assessing and understanding the evolutionary origin of derived polyploid apomictic taxa and for evaluating their threat status in response to the ongoing climate change. To fill this gap, we will use an integrative methodological approach combining phylogenomic and cytogenetic tools. We will (i) build a robust multigene phylogeny of diploids using a Hyb-seq method, and evaluate frequency of hybridisation within the group, (ii) perform karyotyping of diploid taxa using Fluorescence in situ hybridisation (FISH), and (iii) infer the ancestral chromosomal states. By doing this, we will (i) solve the phylogenetic relationships among the diploid species and identify those affected by hybridisation, (ii) clarify their taxonomic diversity, and (iii) determine species diversity at chromosomal level. We will interpret the frequency of the hybridisation and karyotype diversity on the diploid level in relation to known diversity of apomictic polyploids related to studied diploids.

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