Variation In Wild Populations Research Articles

Grenedalf: population genetic statistics for the next generation of pool sequencing.

Pool sequencing is an efficient method for capturing genome-wide allele frequencies from multiple individuals, with broad applications such as studying adaptation in Evolve-and-Resequence experiments, monitoring of genetic diversity in wild populations, and genotype-to-phenotype mapping. Here, we present grenedalf, a command line tool written in C++ that implements common population genetic statistics such as θ, Tajima's D, and FST for Pool sequencing. It is orders of magnitude faster than current tools, and is focused on providing usability and scalability, while also offering a plethora of input file formats and convenience options. grenedalf is published under the GPL-3, and freely available at github.com/lczech/grenedalf.

Variation and plasticity in life-history traits and fitness of wild Arabidopsis thaliana populations are not related to their genotypic and ecological diversity

BackgroundDespite its implications for population dynamics and evolution, the relationship between genetic and phenotypic variation in wild populations remains unclear. Here, we estimated variation and plasticity in life-history traits and fitness of the annual plant Arabidopsis thaliana in two common garden experiments that differed in environmental conditions. We used up to 306 maternal inbred lines from six Iberian populations characterized by low and high genotypic (based on whole-genome sequences) and ecological (vegetation type) diversity.ResultsLow and high genotypic and ecological diversity was found in edge and core Iberian environments, respectively. Given that selection is expected to be stronger in edge environments and that ecological diversity may enhance both phenotypic variation and plasticity, we expected genotypic diversity to be positively associated with phenotypic variation and plasticity. However, maternal lines, irrespective of the genotypic and ecological diversity of their population of origin, exhibited a substantial amount of phenotypic variation and plasticity for all traits. Furthermore, all populations harbored maternal lines with canalization (robustness) or sensitivity in response to harsher environmental conditions in one of the two experiments.ConclusionsOverall, we conclude that the environmental attributes of each population probably determine their genotypic diversity, but all populations maintain substantial phenotypic variation and plasticity for all traits, which represents an asset to endure in changing environments.

Capturing and managing genetic diversity in ex situ collections of threatened tropical trees: A case study in Karomia gigas.

Although ex situ collections of threatened plants are most useful when they contain maximal genetic variation, the conservation and maintenance of genetic diversity in collections are often poorly known. We present a case study using population genomic analyses of an ex situ collection of Karomia gigas, a critically endangered tropical tree from Tanzania. Only ~43 individuals are known in two wild populations, and ex situ collections containing 34 individuals were established in two sites from wild-collected seed. The study aimed to understand how much diversity is represented in the collection, analyze the parentage of ex situ individuals, and identify efficient strategies to capture and maintain genetic diversity. We genotyped all known individuals using a 2b-RADseq approach, compared genetic diversity in wild populations and ex situ collections, and conducted parentage analysis of the collections. Wild populations were found to have greater levels of genetic diversity than ex situ populations as measured by number of private alleles, number of polymorphic sites, observed and expected heterozygosity, nucleotide diversity, and allelic richness. In addition, only 32.6% of wild individuals are represented ex situ and many individuals were found to be the product of selfing by a single wild individual. Population genomic analyses provided important insights into the conservation of genetic diversity in K. gigas, identifying gaps and inefficiencies, but also highlighting strategies to conserve genetic diversity ex situ. Genomic analyses provide essential information to ensure that collections effectively conserve genetic diversity in threatened tropical trees.

Harmful self-pollination drives gynodioecy in European chestnut, a self-incompatible tree.

Gynodioecy is a rare sexual system in which two genders (sensu Lloyd, 1980), cosexuals and females, coexist. To survive, female plants must compensate for their lack of siring capacity and male attractiveness. In European chestnut (Castanea sativa), an outcrossing tree, self-pollination reduces fruit set in cosexual individuals because of late-acting self-incompatibility and early inbreeding depression. Could this negative sexual interaction explain the presence of females in this species? We studied gender variation in wild populations of European chestnut. In addition, we compared fruit set (the proportion of flowers giving fruits) and other key female fitness components as well as reproductive allocation between genders. We then performed emasculation experiments in cosexual trees, by removing nectar-producing fertile male inflorescences. We also removed sterile but nectar-producing male inflorescences from female trees, as a control. We found a highly variable proportion of male-sterile individuals in the wild in European chestnut. In the experimental plot, trees from each gender had similar size, flower density, and burr set, but different fruit set. Removing nectar-producing male inflorescences from branches or entire trees increased fruit set in cosexual but not in female trees. These results show that self-pollination impairs fruit set in cosexual trees. Female trees avoid these problems as they do not produce pollen but continue to attract pollinators thanks to their rewarding male-sterile inflorescences, resulting in a much higher fruit set than in cosexuals. This demonstrates that even outcrossed plants can benefit from the cessation of self-pollination, to the point that unisexuality can evolve.

Post‐glacial recolonization and multiple scales of secondary contact contribute to contemporary Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) genomic variation in North America

AbstractAimIn northern environments, periods of isolation during Pleistocene glaciations and subsequent recolonization and secondary contact have had a significant influence on contemporary diversity of many species. The recent advent of high‐resolution genomic analyses allows unprecedented power to resolve genomic signatures of such events in northern species. Here, we provide the highest resolution genomic characterization of Atlantic salmon in North America to date to infer glacial refugia and the geographic scales of post‐glacial secondary contact.LocationNorth America.TaxonAtlantic salmon, Salmo salar.MethodsSamples were collected for 5455 individuals from 148 populations, encompassing the majority of the Atlantic salmon's native range in North America, from Labrador to Maine. Individuals were genotyped using a 220K single nucleotide polymorphism array aligned to the Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) genome. Spatial genetic structure (principal component analysis, k‐means clustering, admixture) was evaluated in conjunction with genomic comparisons of these identified lineages to infer the refugia during the last glacial maximum and regions of secondary contact following recolonization.ResultsSpatial genomic analyses identified three phylogeographic groups, consistent with the northward recolonization from two southern glacial refugia in North America (a western Maritime lineage and an eastern Newfoundland and Labrador lineage), with subsequent differentiation of the eastern lineage into two separate groups. Secondary contact among these North American groups was observed within the northern Gulf of St. Lawrence, and evidence of trans‐Atlantic secondary contact was detected within the eastern Newfoundland and Labrador lineage. Comparison of groups from insular Newfoundland with those from mainland Labrador suggests genomic regions displaying high differentiation were characterized by elevated European admixture, suggesting a possible role of European secondary contact in population divergence.Main ConclusionsThese findings present the first evidence suggesting that genomic diversity in extant North American Atlantic salmon populations has resulted from allopatric isolation in two glacial refugia followed by both regional and trans‐Atlantic recolonization and secondary contact and demonstrate the power of genomic tools to resolve historical drivers of diversity in wild populations.

Evolution of individual variation in a competitive trait: a theoretical analysis.

When competitive traits are costly, negative frequency dependence can maintain genetic variance. Most theoretical studies examining this problem assume binary polymorphisms, yet most trait variation in wild populations is continuous. We propose that continuous trait variation can result from continuous variation in resource quality and that, specifically, the shape of the resource distribution determines trait maintenance. We used an individual-based model to test which conditions favour the stable maintenance of variation and which cause temporal fluctuations in trait values. This approach, inspired by contrasting outcomes of previous studies regarding variance and fluctuations in trait values, clearly showed a decisive role played by the shape of resource distributions. Under extreme conditions, e.g., the absence of resource variation or with very scarce resources for weak competitors, traits evolved to a single non-competitive or highly competitive strategy, respectively. Most other distributions led to strong temporal fluctuations on trait values or the maintenance of stable, standing variation. Our results thus explain the contradicting outcomes of previous theoretical studies and, at the same time, provide hypotheses to explain the maintenance of genetic variation and individual differences. We suggest ways to empirically test the proposed effects of resource variation on trait maintenance.

Spatial covariation between genetic and epigenetic diversity in wild plant and animal populations: a meta-analysis.

Epigenetic variation may be crucial in understanding the structure of wild populations, thereby aiding in their management and conservation. However, the relationship between epigenetic and genetic variation remains poorly understood, especially in wild populations. To address this, we conducted a meta-analysis of studies that examined the genetic and epigenetic structures of wild plant and animal populations. We aimed to determine whether epigenetic variation is spatially independent of genetic variation in the wild and to highlight the conditions under which epigenetic variation might be informative. We show a significant positive correlation between genetic and epigenetic pairwise differentiation, indicating that in wild populations, epigenetic diversity is closely linked to genetic differentiation. The correlation was weaker for population pairs that were weakly differentiated genetically, suggesting that in such cases, epigenetic marks might be independent of genetic marks. Additionally, we found that global levels of genetic and epigenetic differentiation were similar across plant and animal populations, except when populations were weakly differentiated genetically. In such cases, epigenetic differentiation was either higher or lower than genetic differentiation. Our results suggest that epigenetic information is particularly relevant in populations that have recently diverged genetically or are connected by gene flow. Future studies should consider the genetic structure of populations when inferring the role of epigenetic diversity in local adaptation in wild populations. Furthermore, there is a need to identify the factors that sustain the links between genetic and epigenetic diversity to improve our understanding of the interplay between these two forms of variation in wild populations.

A time-course transcriptome analysis revealing the potential molecular mechanism of early gonadal differentiation in the Chinese giant salamander

The Chinese giant salamander (CGS) Andrias davidianus is the largest extant amphibian and has recently become an important species for aquaculture with high economic value. Meanwhile, its wild populations and diversity are in urgent need of protection. Exploring the mechanism of its early gonadal differentiation will contribute to the development of CGS aquaculture and the recovery of its wild population. In this study, transcriptomic and phenotypic research was conducted on the critical time points of early gonadal differentiation of CGS. The results indicate that around 210 days post-hatching (dph) is the critical window for female CGS's gonadal differentiation, while 270 dph is that of male CGS. Besides, the TRPM1 gene may be the crucial gene among many candidates determining the sex of CGS. More importantly, in our study, key genes involved in CGS's gonadal differentiation and development are identified and their potential pathways and regulatory models at early stage are outlined. This is an initial exploration of the molecular mechanisms of CGS's early gonadal differentiation at multiple time points, providing essential theoretical foundations for its captive breeding and offering unique insights into the conservation of genetic diversity in wild populations from the perspective of sex development.

The potential impact of aquaculture on the genetic diversity and conservation of wild fish in sub‐Saharan Africa

Abstract An increasing focus on aquaculture using introduced strains or species poses a serious threat to native wild species in sub‐Saharan Africa, yet almost no policies have been enacted or regulations put in place to address this environmental challenge. Aquaculture in these regions has traditionally been conducted on a relatively small scale but is currently expanding rapidly and is projected to continue increasing in the coming decades, with increasing use of genetically improved strains. This expansion is occurring in a region known for its high biodiversity, creating challenges for increasing fish production without damaging wild fish populations. However, few studies have yet assessed the impacts of changes in aquaculture practice on the genetic composition and diversity of wild populations. The use of non‐native improved strains for aquaculture could cause competition, gene introgression when there is interbreeding with native populations or species, displacement of species and possible extinction of the native wild populations. After providing historical context on African aquaculture, this review describes the current methods of fish breeding and genetic improvement programmes for the main species of cultured fishes, focusing on the potential conservation impacts of the use of introduced (and selectively bred) farmed species. Existing aquaculture policies, legislation and regulations regarding the import and farming of fish are then compared across the main fish‐producing countries. We recommend a regional policy framework considering fish introduction, risk analysis and risk management, human resources development and genetic monitoring that could be drafted into the existing policies to strengthen conservation efforts. We conclude by making recommendations for refining existing regulations and for future research aimed at minimizing the impacts of aquaculture on wild fish populations in sub‐Saharan Africa. Aquaculture in this region needs implementation of responsible guidelines to avoid genetic impacts on native populations of high conservation value.

The genomic architecture of continuous plumage colour variation in the European barn owl (Tyto alba).

The maintenance of colour variation in wild populations has long fascinated evolutionary biologists, although most studies have focused on discrete traits exhibiting rather simple inheritance patterns and genetic architectures. However, the study of continuous colour traits and their potentially oligo- or polygenic genetic bases remains rare in wild populations. We studied the genetics of the continuously varying white-to-rufous plumage coloration of the European barn owl (Tyto alba) using a genome-wide association approach on the whole-genome data of 75 individuals. We confirmed a mutation at the melanocortin-1-receptor gene (MC1R) is involved in the coloration and identified two new regions, located in super-scaffolds 9 and 42. The combination of the three regions explains most of the colour variation (80.37%, 95% credible interval 58.45-100%). One discovered region, located in the sex chromosome, differs between the most extreme colorations in owls sharing a specific MC1R genotype. This region may play a role in the colour sex dimorphism of this species, possibly in interaction with the autosomal MC1R. We thus provide insights into the genetic architecture of continuous colour variation, pointing to an oligogenic basis with potential epistatic effects among loci that should aid future studies understanding how continuous colour variation is maintained in nature.

Best practices for genotype imputation from low-coverage sequencing data in natural populations.

Monitoring genetic diversity in wild populations is a central goal of ecological and evolutionary genetics and is critical for conservation biology. However, genetic studies of nonmodel organisms generally lack access to species-specific genotyping methods (e.g. array-based genotyping) and must instead use sequencing-based approaches. Although costs are decreasing, high-coverage whole-genome sequencing (WGS), which produces the highest confidence genotypes, remains expensive. More economical reduced representation sequencing approaches fail to capture much of the genome, which can hinder downstream inference. Low-coverage WGS combined with imputation using a high-confidence reference panel is a cost-effective alternative, but the accuracy of genotyping using low-coverage WGS and imputation in nonmodel populations is still largely uncharacterized. Here, we empirically tested the accuracy of low-coverage sequencing (0.1-10×) and imputation in two natural populations, one with a large (n = 741) reference panel, rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta), and one with a smaller (n = 68) reference panel, gelada monkeys (Theropithecus gelada). Using samples sequenced to coverage as low as 0.5×, we could impute genotypes at >95% of the sites in the reference panel with high accuracy (median r2 ≥ 0.92). We show that low-coverage imputed genotypes can reliably calculate genetic relatedness and population structure. Based on these data, we also provide best practices and recommendations for researchers who wish to deploy this approach in other populations, with all code available on GitHub (https://github.com/mwatowich/LoCSI-for-non-model-species). Our results endorse accurate and effective genotype imputation from low-coverage sequencing, enabling the cost-effective generation of population-scale genetic datasets necessary for tackling many pressing challenges of wildlife conservation.

Whole-genome resequencing reveals genetic diversity and signatures of selection in mono-female grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella)

Grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) is an important aquaculture species in China even in the world, and the production of mono-female population can effectively increase its yield as its females grow faster than males. Assessing the genetic basis of mono-female population is of great importance for breeding and culture, and the detection of signature of selection may shed light on genes and mutations associated with important phenotypic traits. In this study, whole-genome resequencing technology was employed to detect the genetic variation in wild populations of grass carp from the Yangtze River and the Pearl River, as well as in a mono-female population based on combining gynogenesis with sex-reversal breeding method. A total of 9,510,648 informative single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were identified across the three populations. The mean observed heterozygosity (Ho) and mean expected heterozygosity (He) of SNPs were calculated to be 0.2139 and 0.2894, 0.2313 and 0.2888, and 0.2523 and 0.2418 in the Yangtze River, Pearl River and mono-female population, respectively. The genetic distance between the mono-female population and the wild populations indicated that there was a moderate genetic differentiation between the three populations. Furthermore, analysis of run of homozygosity (ROH) revealed that the mono-female population exhibited a lower level of genomic inbreeding (inbreed coefficient = 0.075) compared to higher levels in the Yangtze River (inbreeding coefficient = 0.2410) and Pearl River populations (inbreed coefficient = 0.1894). Short ROHs were more frequently observed in the mono-female population, while long ROHs were more common in the Yangtze River and the Pearl River populations, providing insight into the population history of grass carp. Using the Yangtze River and Pearl River populations as references, 646 and 594 genes with hypothesized selection signature were identified by selective sweeps in the mono-female population, respectively. These genes were involved in 25 KEGG pathways associated with some important traits, such as growth (esm1 and zbed1), reproduction (ccnb1 and ptpn13), development (grin1a, mcc and brd2) and immune response (npr2, psmb9a, psmb8, tap2 and h2a). These results will be helpful for the molecular marker-assisted breeding and development conservation strategies of grass carp germplasm resources.

Variation in morphological, biochemical and antioxidant properties of Lilium polyphyllum

Lilium polyphyllum D.Don ex Royle belonging to family Liliaceae is a medicinal plant distributed in temperate to high altitude regions of Himalaya. Its bulbs have been used for anti-aging and vitality properties in >30 formulations of Ayurveda. Therefore, the knowledge on various traits of the plant is necessary so that quality of the finished products could be maintained. Present study investigates, morphological, biochemical and antioxidant properties in different populations of L. polyphyllum. A significant variation was recorded in different morphological parameters (Plant height, leaf number, leaf length, leaf width, bulb diameter, bulb fresh weight). Variation was also recorded for total soluble protein (7.81-11.35 mg/g), soluble sugar (96.14-116.14 mg/g), starch (116.37-122.43 mg/g) and total free amino acid (18.22-26.00 mg/g). Antioxidant properties in the bulb were determined and ABTS activity was 4.22 mM /100 g, DPPH activity recorded 0.85 mM/100 g and FRAP activity was 1.50 mM/100 g dw ascorbic acid equivalent, respectively. The diversity in wild populations of the species may serve as a baseline data for future breeding, domestication and conservation program.

Genetic diversity and structure in two epiphytic orchids from the montane forests of southern Ecuador: The role of overcollection on Masdevallia rosea in comparison with the widespread Pleurothallis lilijae.

Ecuador has a high diversity of orchids, but little is known about levels of genetic diversity for the great majority of species. Understanding how orchids might adapt to changes is crucial as deforestation and fragmentation of forest ecosystems threaten the survival of many epiphytic orchids that depend on other species, such as fungi and their host trees, for germination, growth, and establishment. Overcollection and the illegal trade are also major concerns for the survival of wild populations of orchids. Despite increasing awareness, effective interventions are often limited by a lack of data concerning the impacts that overexploitation might have. To fill this gap, we tested the effects of overcollection in the genetic diversity and structure of Masdevallia rosea, a narrow distributed epiphytic orchid historically collected in Ecuador, in comparison with the widely distributed Pleurothallis lilijae. Genotyping based on AFLPs showed reduced levels of diversity in wild populations but most especially in the overcollected, M. rosea. Overall, genetic admixture was high in P. lilijae segregating populations by altitude levels while fewer genetic groups were found in M. rosea. Genetic differentiation was low in both species. A spatial genetic structure was found in P. lilijae depending on altitude levels, while no spatial genetic structure was found in M. rosea. These results suggest different scenarios for the two species: while gene flow over long distance is possible in P. lilijae, the same seems to be unlikely in M. rosea possibly due to the low levels of individuals in the known populations. In situ and ex situ conservation strategies should be applied to protect the genetic pool in these epiphytic orchid species, and to promote the connectivity between wild populations. Adopting measures to reduce overexploitation and to understand the impacts of harvesting in wild populations are necessary to strengthen the legal trade of orchids.

From Descriptive to Accurate Horseshoe Crab Size Variations in Wild Populations

From Descriptive to Accurate Horseshoe Crab Size Variations in Wild Populations

Characterization of indigenous phalsa (Grewia subinequalis) genotypes using morphological traits and ISSR markers

BackgroundPhalsa (Grewia subinequalis L.) is a commercial and nutritionally important berry fruit. It is cultivated in Pakistan as a minor fruit crop without any variety characterization. Therefore, the objective of to assess genetic diversity through ISSR markers and morphological features of wild phalsa genotypes collected from different parts of Punjab, Pakistan. MethodsMorphological characteristics such as plant height, stem circumference, growth habit, leaf length, leaf width, leaf area, leaf color and leaf apex shape showed high variation among genotypes. ResultsAmong the twenty inter-simple sequence repeats (ISSR) primers, UBC-812 exhibited the highest PIC values of (0.485) and Dj (0.389) compared to other primers, which considered it better for the identification of phalsa genotypes and prediction of diversity. Moreover, the unweighted pair group method with arithmetic mean cluster analysis divided the sampled genotypes into five clusters (clusters A-E) based on morphological analysis, while molecular data divided the genotypes into eight clusters (clusters A-H). ConclusionThis study confirmed the high diversity in wild populations especially 'O1P2” and “O7P3” genotypes, with both DNA-based and morphological descriptors that depict their potential use for future phalsa breeding programs.

"Genetic variability and phylogenetic analysis of great snakehead Channa marulius based on mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit I from River Sutlej in Punjab, India"

The present study was carried out to analyze the biodiversity of fish species under family Channidae and genetic diversity with special reference to Channa marulius from selected stretches of River Sutlej in Punjab. Total three species under family Channidae wererecorded i.e. Channa striata, C. marulius and C. punctata. In catch composition, among these three species, C. marulius was dominant (58%) followed by C. striata (37%) and C. punctata (5%). In C. marulius the Mean ± SE values of weight, total length and standard length were 1482.39±290.02 g, 57.70±3.74 cm and 49.94±3.27 cm, respectively. Length-weight relationship established a negative allometric growth pattern in C. marulius. The genetic variation in wild population of C. marulius was determined by using partial sequence of the Cytochrome oxidase subunit I of mitochondrial DNA. Three haplotypes were found in 14 Cytochrome Oxidase subunit I sequences of C. marulius at Sutlej River. The haplotype diversity (0.026) and nucleotide diversity were recorded low (0.045). The phylogenetic pattern of all the specimens of C. marulius were same barring two specimens which showed some variations. The intraspecific mean was 0.05 and pair-wise distance assorted from 0.00 to 0.192%, showed no significant difference. The nucleotidefrequency was A=23.1%, T=29.37%, G=17.33% and C=30.18% and G+C content was 0.475 (47.5%). Though no previous genetic diversity data of C. marulius from river Sutlej is available, the comparison of these diversity indices with C. striata stocks from other geographical locations indicates that C. marulius stocks in river Sutlej are less genetically diverse. The present study can be utilized as database for future policy framing and conservation measures. 

Telomeres in a spatial context: a tool for understanding ageing pattern variation in wild populations

Telomeres in a spatial context: a tool for understanding ageing pattern variation in wild populations

Genotyping-by-Sequencing Reveals the Impact of Restocking on Wild Common Carp Populations of the Southern Caspian Basin

Understanding the population structure and level of genetic diversity of wild populations is fundamental for appropriate stock management and species conservation. The common carp (Cyprinus carpio) is one of the most important bony fish throughout the Southern coastline of the Caspian Sea, but captures of this species have seen a dramatic reduction during the last decade. As a consequence, a restocking program has been put in place to maintain C. carpio populations, but its impact is not clear. In the present study, the population structure and genetic diversity of C. carpio in the Southern Caspian basin was determined using 17,828 single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers. A total of 117 individuals collected from four different locations in the southern Caspian basin and a farm were genotyped by genotyping-by-sequencing. The overall Fst obtained was 0.04, indicating a low level of differentiation between populations, and most genetic diversity was attributed to within population variation (97%). The low Fst values suggest that frequent migration events between different locations occur, and three migration events were inferred in the present study. However, each population still showed a distinct genetic profile, which allowed distinguishing the origin of the fish. This indicates that the ongoing restocking program is maintaining the differences between populations to some extent. Nonetheless, high inbreeding and low heterozygosity were detected in all populations, suggesting that additional conservation efforts are required to protect C. carpio populations in the Southern coast of the Caspian Sea.

Extensive population-level sampling reveals clinal variation in (R)-(−)-linalool produced by the flowers of an endemic evening primrose, Oenothera harringtonii

The study of floral trait diversity has a long history due to its role in angiosperm diversification. While many studies have focused on visual traits including morphology and color, few have included floral scent despite its importance in pollination. Of the studies that have included floral scent, sampling has been limited and rarely explores variation at the population level. We studied geographic variation in the flowers of Oenothera harringtonii, a rare plant endemic to a vulnerable shortgrass prairie habitat, whose population structure and conservation status are well studied. The self-incompatible flowers of O. harringtonii open at dusk, produce nectar and a strong fragrance, and are pollinated by hawkmoths. We collected floral trait (morphology, scent chemistry and emission rates) data from 650 individuals from 19 wild populations to survey floral variation across the entire range of this species. Similarly, we collected floral data from 49 individuals grown in a greenhouse common garden, to assess whether variation observed in the field is consistent when environment factors (temperature, watering regime, soil) are standardized. We identified 35 floral volatiles representing 5 biosynthetic classes. Population differentiation was stronger for floral scent chemistry than floral morphology. (R)-(−)-linalool was the most important floral trait differentiating populations, exhibiting clinal variation across the distribution of O. harringtonii without any correlated shifts in floral morphology. Populations in the north and west produced (R)-(−)-linalool consistently, those in the east and south largely lacked it, and populations at the center of the distribution were polymorphic. Floral scent emissions in wild populations varied across four years but chemical composition was largely consistent over time. Similarly, volatile emission rates and chemical composition in greenhouse-grown plants were consistent with those of wild populations of origin. Our data set, which represents the most extensive population-level survey of floral scent to date, indicates that such sampling may be needed to capture potentially adaptive geographic variation in wild populations.