The genome sequence of a spider mite, Tetranychus truncatus, provides insights into interspecific host range variation and the genetic basis of adaptation to a low-quality host plant.

Abstract

The phytophagous mite Tetranychus truncatus is a serious pest in East Asia but has a relatively narrower host range than the pest mite Tetranychus urticae, which can feed on over 1200 plant species. Here, we generated a high-quality chromosomal level genome of T.truncatus and compared it with that of T.urticae, with an emphasis on the genes related to detoxification and chemoreception, to explore the genomic basis underlying the evolution of host range. We also conducted population genetics analyses (in 86 females from 10 populations) and host transfer experiments (in 4 populations) to investigate transcription changes following transfer to a low-quality host (Solanum melongena, eggplant), and we established possible connections between fitness on eggplant and genes related to detoxification and chemoreception. We found that T.truncatus has fewer genes related to detoxification, transport, and chemoreception than T.urticae, with a particularly strong reduction in gustatory receptor (GR) genes. We also found widespread transcriptional variation among T.truncatus populations, which varied in fitness on eggplant. We characterized selection on detoxification-related genes through ω values and found a negative correlation between expression levels and ω values. Based on the transcription results, as well as the fitness and genetic differences among populations, we identified genes potentially involved in adaptation to eggplant in T.truncatus. Our work provides a genomic resource for this pest mite and new insights into mechanisms underlying the adaptation of herbivorous mites to host plants.