Plant Evolution
Articles tagged with Plant Evolution
The fast-track tree breeding method that is restoring European ash to the landscape
Researchers at John Innes Centre develop rapid seed germination protocol, reducing Ash dieback's impact. This new method has already produced over 2,000 seedlings for trials and research.
Evolution in fast-forward: How thale cress adapts – or goes extinct
Researchers tracked genetic changes in Arabidopsis thaliana across 30 sites over five years, finding most populations adapted to local environmental conditions. However, some populations went extinct due to genetic drift, highlighting the importance of preserving biodiversity.
Cactus catalogue could help plant’s prickly problem
A new open access database of cactus ecology and evolution could help scientists and conservationists save species from the brink. The CactEcoDB offers an unprecedented window into the evolution, ecology and conservation needs of one of the world's most distinctive and endangered plant families.
Hiding in plain sight: Scientists uncover the ancient DNA sequences that control gene function across plant evolution
A new study has identified ~2.3 million conserved non-coding DNA sequences across 284 plant species, revealing deep principles of plant genome evolution. These ancient regulatory sequences can be maintained despite repeated genome duplications, opening the door to precise engineering of plant traits.
Secrets of evolution found in ancient plant DNA
A new study has discovered over 2.3 million conserved non-coding sequences in plants, providing a comprehensive atlas of regulatory conservation across 284 species. These sequences date back to over 400 million years ago, shedding light on the evolution of plant genomes and gene families.
Nutrient uptake gets to the root of roots
Researchers at Kobe University found that liverwort's hair-like rhizoids take in and transport phosphorus to its tissues, contrary to initial assumptions. This discovery sheds light on the evolution of nutrient acquisition mechanisms in simple land plants like mosses and liverworts.
Ancestral motif enables broad DNA binding by NIN, a master regulator of rhizobial symbiosis
Researchers discovered a short amino acid motif in NIN that confers broader DNA binding specificity, essential for rhizobial infection and nitrogen fixation. This finding suggests NIN evolved by co-opting preexisting molecular features of ancestral NLP transcription factors.
Plants retain a ‘genetic memory’ of past population crashes, study shows
Researchers found that plants living in areas with human activity causing population crashes have reduced genetic diversity and higher inbreeding levels. Conservationists must consider a population's history-influenced genetics alongside its size and habitat in planning.
This flower evolved a new shape so that different birds could pollinate it. Then, it spread.
Researchers found that the green-flowered Aeschynanthus acuminatus evolved on the mainland, not in Taiwan, and adapted to shorter-beaked birds. This contradicts the Grant-Stebbins model of plant evolution, which predicted the species would evolve in Taiwan with new pollinators.
Feeling the heat
Researchers at Harvard University have discovered that cycads heat up their reproductive organs to attract beetle pollinators, who possess infrared sensors to detect these signals. The study found that all 17 cycad species followed a circadian pattern, with male cones heating first and females cooling down before warming up again.
The evolutionary mysteries of a rare parasitic plant
A recent study mapped the evolutionary history of Asia-Pacific Balanophora species, revealing its retained plastids despite losing photosynthetic genes. This allows it to survive entirely as a parasite on specific tree roots, with some species producing seeds without fertilization.
How parasitic, asexual plants evolve and live
Researchers found that all Balanophora plants have an extremely reduced plastid genome, showing that even though they abandon photosynthesis, the plastid is still vital to their metabolism. Asexual reproduction likely evolved repeatedly in the group, with some species colonizing islands without fertilization.
AI offers ‘roadmap’ to plant genetics
Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory developed an AI-powered approach to identify redundant genes in plants. By analyzing evolutionary data and machine learning models, they predicted which genes to edit to modify specific traits, providing a new 'roadmap' for plant breeders.
New archaeological study challenges the paleo diet, revealing humans have always eaten processed plant foods
A new archaeological study reveals that early humans relied heavily on a wide range of plant and animal foods, challenging the traditional paleo diet narrative. Humans have always been flexible eaters, using diverse plant resources to unlock key calories and nutrients.
Urban natives: Plants evolve to live in cities
Researchers found that a plant species adapted to urban conditions exhibited inheritable characteristics, such as changes in size and flowering periods, within 60 years of urbanization. Elevated ground temperatures and reduced soil acidity drove these differences.
An international team uncovers the comprehensive repertoire of genes and agricultural traits of eggplant
Researchers sequenced the genome of over 3,400 cultivated eggplant varieties and identified key agronomic traits associated with genes. The study revealed over 3,000 associations between traits and genes, providing a foundation for breeding tailor-made eggplant varieties adapted to local conditions.
Researchers use living fossils to uncover a wealth of genes for seed improvement
A multidisciplinary team of researchers used genomic technology to decode the DNA of non-flowering seed plants, including gymnosperms, to identify genes involved in seed development. The study, published in Nature Communications, may aid scientists in improving crop production and conserving these ancient endangered seed plants.
Researchers identify rare lost allele boosting soybean seed protein
A Chinese research team has identified a rare natural allele in wild soybeans that increases seed protein content and was lost during domestication. The found allele, PC08 Ins, boosts gene expression, raises ABA levels, and promotes storage protein accumulation.
A recipe from two eras: How conifers ward off their enemies
Researchers found that conifer resin contains a mix of ancient and recent diterpenes, which may aid in combating bark beetles. The team's genetic analysis revealed that some diterpenes originated 300 million years ago, while others developed more recently and independently in different tree species.
Snapdragon secrets
Researchers collect snapdragon flowers and leaves to study their genetic diversity, revealing how color genes keep two varieties distinct. In hybrid zones, magenta and yellow snapdragons blend, but bees prefer one over the other, reducing fitness and offspring.
Ancient crop discovered in the Canary Islands thanks to archaeological DNA
Researchers at Linköping University and the University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria have discovered that lentils grown in the Canary Islands have a 2,000-year history, with genetic analysis revealing they originated from North African varieties brought by indigenous people. The study suggests these well-adapted lentil varieties may be...
Game-changing biotech for engineering pathogen-resistant crops
Researchers at RIKEN Center for Sustainable Resource Science identified ancient protein SCORE to help plants defend against various pathogens. By engineering synthetic SCORE variants, plants can be made resistant to multiple pathogen types.
Researchers identify protein that evolved to enable photosynthesis in land plants
A team of researchers at the University of Toronto has identified a protein, Shikimate kinase-like 1 (SKL1), that enables land plants to convert light into energy through photosynthesis. This discovery holds promise for improved herbicides and increased efficiency of photosynthesis in food crops.
New project to develop methods to fast-track crop improvement
Researchers at Cranfield University are developing a faster and more efficient method for genetically engineering plants, bypassing tissue culture. The 'Fast-Track Crop Improvement' project aims to transform seeds and pollen directly, increasing the speed of crop improvement and opening up new possibilities for breeding and production.
How cucumbers got longer - and why it's a big deal for farming
Researchers found that a single synonymous mutation in a gene drives cucumber elongation by altering RNA structure and function. This breakthrough has significant implications for crop breeding programs and may lead to the development of precision-crop improvement techniques.
Sugar, the hidden thermostat in plants
New research reveals that plants rely on multiple heat-sensing systems and a sugar-based mechanism to detect temperature changes. Sugar produced in sunlight helps plants grow taller even when thermosensors like phytochrome B are less effective. This discovery could lead to breeding crops more resiliently under stress.
Tomatoes in the Galápagos are quietly de-evolving
New research reveals evolutionary reversal in island plants where wild-growing tomatoes on western islands produce alkaloids similar to those found in eggplants. The study suggests that environmental conditions may be driving the reversal, and this phenomenon could have implications for human evolution and nature's ability to adapt.
Scientists reveal gene pairs conferring resistance to wheat diseases
Researchers identified two novel genetic mechanisms governing disease resistance in wheat, involving pairs of nucleotide-binding leucine-rich repeat immune receptors. The discoveries offer new insights into plant immunity and provide crucial gene resources for breeding resistant wheat varieties.
New 3D genome mapping technology sheds light on how plants regulate photosynthesis
Chinese researchers developed a groundbreaking 3D genome mapping technology that reveals how the 3D organization of plant genomes influences gene expression, especially in photosynthesis. The innovation provides a precise tool for understanding long-range chromatin interactions and their role in regulating biological processes.
Cannabis pangenome reveals potential for medicinal and industrial use
Researchers created the most comprehensive genetic atlas of cannabis, revealing unprecedented diversity and untapped opportunity in this foundational agricultural species. The study sets the stage for transformative advances in cannabis-based agriculture, medicine, and industry.
Researchers unveil epigenetic mechanism of cold adaptation in rice
A new study reveals that DNA methylation mediates the transgenerational inheritance of acquired cold tolerance in rice, supporting Lamarck's theory. Researchers developed a novel breeding strategy to develop stress-resilient crops, offering a promising avenue to tackle agricultural challenges posed by global climate change.
A root development gene that’s older than root development
A Kobe University study finds that a gene regulating root development in vascular plants is also essential for organ development in liverworts, demonstrating the evolutionary dynamic of co-opting. The RLF protein, involved in this process, interacts with others to clarify plant organ development evolution.
On the origin (and fate) of plants that never bloom
A study by Kobe University reveals that plants reproducing solely through self-pollination likely arose from populations with extremely low genetic diversity. The research found that these species are highly successful at producing fruit and may have an evolutionary edge over outcrossing, raising questions about their long-term viability.
Human activity reduces plant diversity hundreds of kilometres away
A recent study found that human activities negatively impact plant diversity over vast distances, with natural habitats containing only a fraction of potential species in heavily impacted regions. The DarkDivNet network analyzed 5,500 locations across the globe, revealing alarming effects on biodiversity.
Artificial intelligence and genetics can help farmers grow corn with less fertilizer
New York University researchers developed a novel process using machine learning to reveal groups of genes governing nitrogen use efficiency in plants like corn. The study aims to help farmers improve crop yields and minimize fertilizer costs.
Mission accomplished for the “T2T” Hong Kong Bauhinia Genome Project
The Hong Kong Bauhinia Genome Project has completed a decade-long effort to sequence the DNA of Hong Kong's floral emblem, revealing 28 complete chromosomes and solving the species' parentage. The project's T2T genome assembly provides insights into genetic mechanisms underlying its vibrant blooms and ecological adaptability.
From bacterial immunity to plant sex
Researchers at ISTA have discovered a new DNA marker, N4-methylcytosine (4mC), crucial for sperm function and fertility in the liverwort Marchantia polymorpha. The team found that high levels of 4mC are necessary for agile sperm development, affecting swimming speed, direction, and fertilization success.
Researchers reveal why young plants may be more vulnerable to disease
A University of Maryland study reveals that young plants face a hidden trade-off between fighting disease and growing, leading to reduced reproductive fitness. Plants with stronger disease resistance as seedlings produce fewer flowers and seeds over their lifetime.
Global patterns in seed plant distribution over millions of years
A study analyzing nearly 270,000 seed plant species reveals environmental conditions, particularly climate, play a significant role in shaping global plant distributions. Physical barriers have a smaller effect on ancient plant groups that have had longer periods to disperse widely.
Genetic defense breakthrough: plants repurpose stomatal genes to fend off herbivores
Researchers discovered that cruciferous plants like cabbage and wasabi repurpose stomatal genes for defense, producing pungent compounds that deter herbivores. FAMA regulates both gas exchange and myrosin cell production, a key trigger for this defense mechanism.
Chinese scientists find structural variation that boosts grain number in sorghum
Researchers have uncovered two major genes responsible for sorghum's double-grain spikelet, leading to a significant increase in grain number and crop yield. The study found that the DG1 gene regulates floret meristem formation and differentiation, restoring fertility to the lower floret and resulting in the double-grain trait.
600 million years of stress
A research team from Göttingen University has compared algae and plants that span 600 million years of independent evolution, identifying a shared stress response network. This comprehensive dataset can be further explored for its physiological impact across plant diversity.
New manzanita species discovered, already at risk
A new species of manzanita has been discovered on the central coast of California, but its survival is already at risk due to urban development. The species, Arctostaphylos nipumu, lacks a protective burl that allows some other manzanitas to resprout after wildfires.
Why is Japanese knotweed so highly invasive?
Research published in New Phytologist reveals that Japanese knotweed's ability to outcompete native plants lies in its rapid clonal propagation method. This study provides crucial insights into the invasive plant's success and offers valuable knowledge for developing effective control methods.
Corn’s ancient ancestors are calling
Researchers Rob Martienssen and Thomas Gingeras analyzed maize and teosinte genomes to identify regulatory regions controlling gene expression. They found hundreds of thousands of enhancers and super enhancers that were strongly selected during domestication 9,000 years ago.
Mapping the yerba mate genome reveals surprising facts about the evolution of caffeine
Researchers mapped yerba mate's genome, discovering an ancestor that duplicated its genome 50 million years ago. This event led to the evolution of caffeine biosynthesis in yerba mate and coffee through convergent pathways. The study provides opportunities for creating plant varieties with new characteristics.
Plant’s name-giving feature found to be new offspring-ensuring method
A study by Kobe University botanist Kenji Suetugu reveals that certain fungus-eating orchids, like Stigmatodactylus sikokianus, predominantly self-pollinate after three days, ensuring reproductive success. This delayed mechanism may drive the evolution of combined self- and outcrossing methods to avoid inbreeding.
Tiny plants reveal big potential for boosting crop efficiency
Scientists discover unique hornworts with natural CO2-concentrating mechanism, optimizing photosynthesis and potentially revolutionizing agriculture. The discovery could lead to increased crop yields and improved food security, making it a promising direction for sustainable agriculture.
Hornwort genomes provide clues on how plants conquered the land
Research on hornwort genomes uncovers the secrets of plant evolution, revealing stable autosomes despite deep evolutionary history. The study also identifies dynamic accessory chromosomes and potential sex chromosomes, providing insights into plant reproductive strategies and adaptation to environmental challenges.
Revealing a key mechanism of rapid centromere evolution
A joint research group clarifies a key mechanism of how retrotransposons preferentially insert in the centromere. The findings reveal strong integration biases for certain genetic elements, shedding light on rapid genome evolution.
Evolutionary study reveals the toxic reach of disease-causing bacteria across the Plant Kingdom
A new study finds that disease-causing bacteria can infect a wide range of plant species, including non-flowering plants, using a common set of pathogenicity factors. The research suggests that the toxin syringomycin interferes with cell membranes across diverse plant species.
This mysterious plant fossil belongs to a family that no longer exists
A new study has uncovered a rare plant fossil with unusual flowers, fruits, and stems that does not belong to any living family or genus. The discovery suggests there may be more diversity in the fossil record of flowering plants than previously recognized.
Study offers insight into chloroplast evolution
A new study explores the origin of chloroplasts, finding they likely produced chemical energy for cells before shifting to carbon assimilation. The researchers used bioinformatics methods and experiments to determine that plastids from red algae and glaucophytes resemble more ancient stages of evolution.
Historic outbreaks of coffee wilt disease linked to gene transfer from another fungus
A study published in PLOS Biology found that the fungal pathogen causing coffee wilt disease took up segments of DNA from a related species, F. oxysporum, contributing to successive outbreaks. This horizontal gene transfer event likely contributed to the repeated emergence of the disease on the African continent.
Landmark photosynthesis gene discovery boosts plant height, advances crop science
A landmark photosynthesis gene discovery has been made in a poplar tree that enhances plant growth by up to 200% and increases biomass production. The gene, named Booster, has the potential to boost crop yields without requiring more land, water or fertilizer.
Insects wearing two hats solve botanical mystery
Researchers at Kobe University have discovered that ants and camel crickets are crucial in the pollination and seed dispersal of rare parasitic plants. These tiny arthropods play a unique dual role, visiting flowers for pollen and nectar while later feeding on leaves carrying seeds.
Ecosystems: New study questions common assumption about biodiversity
A global analysis of 1.7 million plant community datasets reveals no positive correlation between functional and phylogenetic diversity in most ecosystems. Instead, many plots exhibit a high level of functional diversity with low phylogenetic diversity.
The amborella genome: A window into the origins of plant sex and reproduction
A groundbreaking study has revealed insights into the evolution of flowering plants and their reproductive strategies. The Amborella trichopoda genome provides valuable information on the genetic underpinnings of plant diversity, shedding light on the mechanisms that determine plant sex.
Superior photosynthesis abilities of some plants could hold key to climate-resilient crops
Researchers found that a regulatory level change enabled C4 plants to photosynthesize more efficiently. By studying this shift, they believe it could be applied to make C3 crops like rice and wheat more resilient to climate change.