Chromosome evolution and the genetic basis of agronomically important traits in greater yam
Abstract
The nutrient-rich tubers of the greater yam,Dioscorea alataL., provide food and income security for millions of people around the world. Despite its global importance, however, greater yam remains an orphan crop. Here, we address this resource gap by presenting a highly contiguous chromosome-scale genome assembly ofD. alatacombined with a dense genetic map derived from African breeding populations. The genome sequence reveals an ancient allotetraploidization in theDioscorealineage, followed by extensive genome-wide reorganization. Using the genomic tools, we find quantitative trait loci for resistance to anthracnose, a damaging fungal pathogen of yam, and several tuber quality traits. Genomic analysis of breeding lines reveals both extensive inbreeding as well as regions of extensive heterozygosity that may represent interspecific introgression during domestication. These tools and insights will enable yam breeders to unlock the potential of this staple crop and take full advantage of its adaptability to varied environments.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Pub Defense Publication
- Publication Date
- Apr 14, 2022
- Source ID
- 10.1038/s41467-022-29114-w
Entities
People
- Alice Muchugi
- Allen Van Deynze
- Anna V. Sherwood
- Antonio Lopez-montes
- Asrat Asfaw
- Chiedozie N. Egesi
- Christian O. Nwadili
- Daniel S. Rokhsar
- David M. Goodstein
- Eva Hřibová
- Geoffrey J. Barton
- Gordon G. Simpson
- Ibukun O. Oniyinde
- Ikenna Nnabue
- Jaroslav Doležel
- Jeremiah Nwogha
- Jessen V Bredeson
- Jessica B Lyons
- Jonathan Featherston
- Joseph Carlson
- Jude Obidiegwu
- Katarzyna Knop
- Matthew Parker
- Nneka R. Okereke
- Olufisayo Kolade
- Prasad S Hendre
- Pullikanti Lava Kumar
- Ramni Jamnadass
- Ranjana Bhattacharjee
- Robert Asiedu
- Robert Kariba
- Samuel Muthemba
- Shengqiang Shu
Organizations
- Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council
- National Science Foundation