New Study: Ecological correlates of population genetics in Linum suffruticosum, an heterostylous polyploid and taxonomic complex endemic to the western Mediterranean Basin

New Study on the plant Linum suffruticosum!

We are pleased to announce a new study featuring researcher Ana Afonso from the FLOWer Lab, unveiling fresh insights into the plant Linum suffruticosum found in the western Mediterranean basin. This plant is highly diverse in appearance and genetics and exhibits a unique reproductive system: heterostyly. This system promotes cross-pollination between different flowers, enhancing genetic diversity.

The study highlights how geographical and biological factors influence the microevolution of this species, aiding in our understanding of Mediterranean plant diversity and adaptation.

Findings reveal that polyploidization (acquiring additional sets of chromosomes) and high rates of crossbreeding played pivotal roles in the microevolution of the Linum suffruticosum species complex. Additionally, isolation by distance and significant geographic barriers such as the Rif Mountains in Northwest Africa are crucial factors in the genetic differentiation of populations.

The scientific article is available here: https://doi.org/10.1093/aobpla/plae027