Wild Varieties Research Articles

Comparative analysis of the NF-Y transcription factor family identifies VaNF-YA6 as a positive regulator of salt and drought tolerance in grapevine

Nuclear factor Y transcription factors (NF-Y TFs) play crucial roles in plant responses to abiotic stress. However, there is a lack of research on the comparative analysis of evolutionary relationships, real-time quantitative fluorescence PCR (RT-qPCR), and functions of NF-Y TFs to screen key NF-Y TFs that are resistant to salt and drought stresses between Vitis vinifera (V. vinifera) and Vitis amurensis (V. amurensis). In this study, 27 and 26 NF-Y TFs were identified in V. vinifera and V. amurensis, respectively, and were divided into three subgroups. Subcellular localization prediction revealed that NF-Ys TFs were mainly located in the nucleus. Interestingly, the NF-YA protein sequence of ‘NTKKLDWEFWGCCDDCEKWFGGCC’ was lost in the V. vinifera compared to V. amurensis, whereas the sequence ‘SSVYSQPWWGHSIVCVA’ was gained, thus, these sequences might be closely related to the functions performed. RT-qPCR analysis of ‘Pinot Noir’ (cultivated variety) and ‘Zuoyouhong’ (wild variety) plantlets demonstrated that the expression levels of VaNF-YA6, VaNF-YB5, VvNF-YA3, VvNF-YA5, and VvNF-YC2 were significantly upregulated under 400 mmol·L-1 NaCl and 10% PEG treatments for 24 h Subcellular localization showed that the VaNF-YA6-GFP fusion protein was functioned primarily in the nucleus. Overexpression of VaNF-YA6 in grapevine leaves and Arabidopsis thaliana (Arabidopsis) could significantly enhance tolerance to salt and drought stresses by improving VvSOS2, VvSOS3, VvABF3, VvCPK6 expression levels, enzyme activities, and other protective substances. In summary, our study provides a theoretical basis for the further use of VaNF-YA6 to improve salt and drought resistance in grapevines.

Maize-Tripsacum-Teosinte allopolyploid (MTP), a novel dwarf mutant inducer tool in maize.

Dwarf plant architecture facilitates dense planting, and increased planting densities boost the maize yield. However, breeding applications of dwarfing materials for maize are currently limited. There is an urgent need remove the obstacles to applying dwarf resources. Here, we innovated a new method to add a novel maize dwarf germplasm through the distant hybridization of Maize-Tripsacum-Teosinte allopolyploid (MTP) with maize. We identified ten independent dwarf families with unique characteristics. Five germplasms in our library were controlled by their respective dwarf genes. However, no allele was controlled by Br2. Subsequently, d024 in the library was successfully fine mapped, revealing its linkage to indel-4 in ZmCYP90D1. The indel-4 polymorphism regulates the expression of ZmCYP90D1 and is controlled by an upstream transcription factor (ZmBES1/BZR1-5). The indel-4 of ZmCYP90D1 allele, which reduces plant height, originated from Tripsacum, a wild variety of maize. However, d024 exhibits sensitivity to brassinosteroids (BRs), with lower castasterone levels in the internodes than that in the wild type. Furthermore, ZmCYP90D1 interacted with ZmFDXs and ZmNAD(P)H to positively regulate the downstream BR synthesis pathway. Additionally, we showed that introgressing the indel-4 of the Tripsacum allele into modern hybrids ensures yield potential and improves the harvest index under high-density conditions. Overall, as we begin to manufacture highly engineered dwarf materials using the MTP, this approach will solve the problems faced by corn dwarfs.

The Situation of Counterfeited and Mislabeled Commercialized Edible Mushrooms in China and the Development of Possible Controls

Edible mushroom products, encompassing both cultivated and wild varieties, are highly favored by consumers due to their rich nutritional profiles, including significant levels of proteins and amino acids. These mushrooms have extensive applications across the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries, making the edible mushroom industry a vital component of global poverty alleviation efforts. Taking China as an example, the country produces over 45 million tons of edible mushrooms annually, accounting for 94.01% of the world’s total production, thereby establishing itself as the leading global producer of edible mushrooms. However, alongside the rapid expansion of this industry, concerns have emerged regarding counterfeit products and incidents of poisoning resulting from the consumption of toxic wild mushrooms. As follows, to advance the development and integrity of the mushroom production and processing industry: (1) This study presents the situation of counterfeit edible mushrooms and elucidates the factors contributing to the production of fraudulent products from both subjective and non-subjective perspectives. (2) We provide a detailed introduction to 22 varieties of freshly cultivated edible mushrooms and commonly encountered wild edible mushrooms in the Chinese consumer market, proposing the application of DNA barcoding, environmental DNA analysis, and other technologies for the future authentication of counterfeit mushroom products. (3) Concurrently, we present an overview of mushroom poisoning incidents in China from 2010 to 2023, emphasizing the challenges in mitigating the risks associated with wild mushroom consumption and preventing food poisoning, thereby necessitating heightened consumer caution. (4) Finally, we offer four recommendations aimed at ensuring the healthy, stable, and sustainable growth of the edible mushroom industry.

Potential Nitrogen Fixing Rhizobia Isolated from Some Wild Legumes of Nagaland Based on RAPD with Nif-directed Primer and Their Biochemical Activities

Wild legumes are widely dispersed and can survive in challenging environments as bacteria dwell in their nodules and help each other. Although Nagaland is home to many wild legume varieties, research on the microbial diversity that goes along with them is still in its infancy. This work aimed to characterize several wild legume root nodules and distinguish possible rhizobial isolates using RAPD and nif-directed RPO1 primer. Nodule bacteria were isolated in Yeast extract culture media. Based on their colony morphology, 150 isolates were selected for performing RAPD with nif-directed RPO1 primer. Eighty-four isolates were bonded with RPO1 primer, and a few biochemical tests were conducted on RPO1-positive isolates. Activities that promoted plant development were also investigated for these isolates. Of all the isolates, 18 exhibited phosphate solubilization capacity, while 38 isolates were found to produce IAA. This study entails a large variety of rhizobia in the nodules, which were able to promote growth. Hence, these isolates promise to be bio-fertilizers that could improve agricultural operations.

Identification of Capsicum species from Colombia by DNA barcoding and high resolution melting (HRM) analysis

AbstractDNA barcoding allows the use of molecular markers to differentiate the species of an interest group. This is especially useful when morphological characters are insufficient due to high similarity between species. The genus Capsicum contains some species that are difficult to determine by taxonomic means, in particular the annuum complex. Thus, the objective of this study was to investigate the discriminatory ability of two molecular markers in Colombian Capsicum accessions, including three wild species belonging to the Andean clade of the genus. A total of 95 Capsicum accessions, representing eight species, were genotyped by high resolution melting analysis (HRM) using the Waxy and C2_At5g04590 markers. Waxy could discriminate the Andean clade species (C. rhomboideum, C. dimorphum and C. lycianthoides), C. baccatum, C. pubescens and C. chinense, while C2_At5g04590 could discriminate C. frutescens, C. annuum var. annuum and C. annuum var. glabriusculum. Hence, a combination of the two markers could be used for discrimination of the eight species including the wild variety of C. annuum: C. annuum var. glabriusculum. Most nucleotide substitutions and indels were found in the sequences of the three Andean species, indicating that the Andean clade has a high genetic diversity compared to the other species. The incorporation of more wild species and varieties in this study allowed to correct the power of both markers to discriminate Capsicum species, besides the registration of new haplotypes.

Molecular Evolution of Rice Blast Resistance Gene bsr-d1

Rice blast, caused by the fungus Magnaporthe oryzae, reduces rice yields by 10% to 35%. Incorporating plant blast resistance genes into breeding programs is an effective strategy to combat this disease. Understanding the genetic variants that confer resistance is crucial to this strategy. The gene Bsr-d1 encodes a C2H2-like transcription factor, and its recessive allele confers broad-spectrum resistance against infections by various strains of M. oryzae. In this study, we investigated the molecular evolution of the rice blast resistance gene bsr-d1 in a representative population consisting of 827 cultivated and wild rice varieties. Our results revealed that wild rice exhibited significantly higher nucleotide diversity, with polymorphic regions primarily concentrated in the promoter region, in contrast to indica and japonica rice varieties. The Bsr-d1 gene displayed significant differentiation between indica and japonica, with the bsr-d1 resistance allele being unique to indica. Haplotype network and phylogenetic analyses suggested that the bsr-d1 resistance allele most likely originated from Oryza nivara in the region adjacent to the Indian Peninsula and the Indochina Peninsula. Moreover, we explored the utilization of bsr-d1 resistance alleles in China and designed a pair of DNA primers based on the polymorphic sites for the detection of the bsr-d1 resistance gene. In summary, our study uncovering the origin and evolution of bsr-d1 will enhance our comprehension of resistance gene variation and expedite the resistance breeding process.

Integrated gene expression and network analysis identify drought-response genes and pathways in Solanum: a computational study

At times of rapid global climatic changes, refining drought tolerance in tomatoes is a demanding concern. Drought-resistant wild tomato relatives offer a valued resource for studying drought response mechanisms and leveraging them for breeding. To understand drought-response mechanisms in Solanum, we performed an integrated gene expression, transcription factor (TF), and network-based analysis in wild (Solanum pimpinellifolium L.) and cultivated (Solanum lycopersicum L.) tomato species with differing drought tolerance. This integrated analysis unveiled distinct gene expression patterns under drought stress in both species. Ethylene-responsive factors (ERFs) were notably the most significantly expressed transcription factors in both varieties. Additionally, species-specific TF expression was observed, such as Ethylene Insensitive3-like (EIL) and MIKC_MADS in the wild type, and Zinc Finger homeodomain (ZF-HD) in the cultivated variety. Differential expression pattern in ROS rummaging and heat shock proteins was observed in the top DEGs of both species. Network analysis highlighted shared genes involved in crucial pathways like jasmonic acid biosynthesis, the protein kinase pathway, and reactive oxygen species foraging in both species. Notably, the wild variety showed altered expression of genes associated with jasmonic acid/ethylene biosynthesis, antioxidant response, heat shock proteins, and cell wall remodeling. These observations offer insights into the differences in drought response in both species and suggest the role of jasmonic acid/ethylene biosynthesis, antioxidant response and ROS scavenging as significant factors contributing to improved drought tolerance in S. pimpinellifolium.

Exploring the Bioactive Potential of Moroccan Lemon Grass (Cymbopogon citratus L.): Investigations on Molecular Weight Distribution and Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Potentials.

Research on lemon grass (Cymbopogon citratus L.) revealed a variety of active molecules and examined their biological characteristics. However, most of these studies were conducted on wild varieties, while cultivated plants were addressed less. This study aimed to characterize the biomolecules and biological activities of lemon grass growing under North African conditions in Morocco. Phenolic compound profiles of aqueous (AE), ethanol (EE), and methanol (ME) extracts and their fractions were obtained with steric exclusion chromatography on Sephadex G50 gel and identified by LC-MS/MS. Then, total polyphenols (TPC), flavonoids (TFC), and antioxidant activities (FRAP: scavenging value and TAC: Total Antioxidant Capacity) of the fraction were evaluated, as well as the antimicrobial activity. The obtained results showed that the ME contained eight major compounds (i.e., apigenine-7-O-rutinoside and myricitine-3-O-rutinoside). The AE showed the presence of five molecules (i.e., kaempferol-3-O-glucuronide), while EE showed the presence of three molecules (i.e., quercetine-3-O-rutinoside). Regarding the chemical characterization, the highest value of total phenolic content (TPC) was obtained in AE (25) (4.60 ± 0.29 mg/g), and the highest value of total flavonoid content (TFC) was obtained in ME (29) (0.7 ± 0.08 mg/g). Concerning the antioxidant activity, the highest FRAP was obtained in ME (29) (97.89%), and the highest total antioxidant capacity (TAC) was obtained in ME (29) (89.89%). Correlation between FRAP, TPC, and TFC was noted only in fractions of AE and ME. All tested extracts of C. citratus and their fractions showed a significant antimicrobial effect. The lowest minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was recorded for ME against E. coli. Extracts' biological activities and their fractions were governed by their active molecules. These data are new and clarify a novel aspect of bioactive molecules in the extracts of cultivated C. citratus. Equally, throughout this research, we clarified the relationship between identified molecules and their biological properties, including antioxidant and anti-microbial activities, which is new for the study area. This study is suggested as a reference for comparative studies and other assays of other biological activities for the study plant.

An Empirical Assessment of Diversity in Fish Species: Case Study of Madhubani District, India

Sarisab Pahi Chaur is a wetland sites in the Madhubani district, Bihar has rich fish diversity. The present investigation was undertaken the status of fish diversity and seasonal impacts on them in Sarisab Pahi Chaur of Madhubani, Bihar. A total number of 29 species representing 17 families of 9 orders of class Actinopterygii were identified from Sarisab Pahi Chaur wetland, the various species of order Cypriniformes 49% and Clupeiformes 16% dominated in the wetland followed by order Siluriformes 15%, Perciformes 12%, Channiformes 6%, Symbrachiformes, Beloniformes, Anguilliformes and Mugiliformes respectively. In present investigation species diversity of fishes of Sarisab Pahi Chaur, ranged between the lowest 0.943 June, 2021 and the highest 1.346 May, 2022. Species evenness (J) of fishes of Sarisab Pahi Chaur, varied from the lowest 0.787 July, 2021 and the highest 0.933 March, 2022 during the investigation period. Species richness (d) of fishes of Sarisab Pahi Chaur, varied from the lowest 6.603 June, 2021 and the highest 12.411 May, 2022. The value of Shannon-Wiener diversity, Species richness and the Evenness in different months are the different value which is depends upon the fish density and physico-chemical parameters of water of wetland. The paper takes into account to explore the importance of wild variety in fish seed production and its support in sustainable livelihood development.

Identification of QTLs and candidate genes for water-soluble protein content in soybean seeds

Soybean represents a vital source of premium plant-based proteins for human nutrition. Importantly, the level of water-soluble protein (WSP) is crucial for determining the overall quality and nutritional value of such crops. Enhancing WSP levels in soybean plants is a high-priority goal in crop improvement. This study aimed to elucidate the genetic basis of WSP content in soybean seeds by identifying quantitative trait loci (QTLs) and set the foundation for subsequent gene cloning and functional analysis. Using 180 F10 recombinant inbred lines generated by crossing the high-protein soybean cultivar JiDou 12 with the wild variety Ye 9, our researcher team mapped the QTLs influencing protein levels, integrating Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis and gene expression profiling to identify candidate genes. During the 2020 and 2022 growing seasons, a standard bell-shaped distribution of protein content trait data was observed in these soybean lines. Eight QTLs affecting protein content were found across eight chromosomes, with LOD scores ranging from 2.59 to 7.30, explaining 4.15–11.74% of the phenotypic variance. Notably, two QTLs were newly discovered, one with a elite allele at qWSPC-15 from Ye 9. The major QTL, qWSPC-19, on chromosome 19 was stable across conditions and contained genes involved in nitrogen metabolism, amino acid biosynthesis, and signaling. Two genes from this QTL, Glyma.19G185700 and Glyma.19G186000, exhibited distinct expression patterns at maturity, highlighting the influence of these genes on protein content. This research revealed eight QTLs for WSP content in soybean seeds and proposed a gene for the key QTL qWSPC-19, laying groundwork for gene isolation and enhanced soybean breeding through the use of molecular markers. These insights are instrumental for developing protein-rich soybean cultivars.

Chromosomal Characterization of Five Medicinally Significant Phyllanthus Species in Bangladesh by DNA Base-Specific Fluorochrome Banding Technique

ABSTRACT Five Phyllanthus species were characterized using a fluorochrome chromosome banding technique with CMA and DAPI. This genus displayed a range of somatic chromosomal counts, including 2n = 2x = 26 (diploid) in P. acidus, P. niruri, and P. reticulatus; 2n = 6x = 48 (hexaploid) in P. urinaria; and 2n = 10x = 100 (decaploid) in P. emblica (wild and cultivated varieties), which exhibited a multi-basic chromosome number. The centromeric and terminal regions of the chromosomes contained most of the CMA and DAPI bands, indicating that GC- and AT-rich repeats had accumulated in these locations. The diversity based on the heterochromatin distribution patterns made it possible to use the CMA and DAPI banding approaches to analyze and characterize these five Phyllanthus species.

The pineapple reference genome: Telomere-to-telomere assembly, manually curated annotation, and comparative analysis.

Pineapple is the third most crucial tropical fruit worldwide and available in five varieties. Genomes of different pineapple varieties have been released to date; however, none of them are complete, with all exhibiting substantial gaps and representing only two of the five pineapple varieties. This significantly hinders the advancement of pineapple breeding efforts. In this study, we sequenced the genomes of three varieties: a wild pineapple variety, a fiber pineapple variety, and a globally cultivated edible pineapple variety. We constructed the first gap-free reference genome (Ref) for pineapple. By consolidating multiple sources of evidence and manually revising each gene structure annotation, we identified 26,656 protein-coding genes. The BUSCO evaluation indicated a completeness of 99.2%, demonstrating the high quality of the gene structure annotations in this genome. Utilizing these resources, we identified 7,209 structural variations across the three varieties. Approximately 30.8% of pineapple genes were located within ±5 kb of structural variations, including 30 genes associated with anthocyanin synthesis. Further analysis and functional experiments demonstrated that the high expression of AcMYB528 aligns with the accumulation of anthocyanins in the leaves, both of which may be affected by a 1.9-kb insertion fragment. In addition, we developed the Ananas Genome Database, which offers data browsing, retrieval, analysis, and download functions. The construction of this database addresses the lack of pineapple genome resource databases. In summary, we acquired a seamless pineapple reference genome with high-quality gene structure annotations, providing a solid foundation for pineapple genomics and a valuable reference for pineapple breeding.

Histological characterization of downy mildew infection in wild rocket (Diplotaxis tenuifolia)

AbstractWild rocket downy mildew (DM), caused by oomycete Hyaloperonospora sp., is a widely spread disease reducing crop production and quality. New productive wild rocket varieties resistant to DM are crucial to control disease and ensure high quality leaves. A histological characterization of Hyaloperonospora sp. infection was performed in 11 wild rocket (Diplotaxis tenuifolia) accessions with contrasting DM responses (R, resistant; PR, partially resistant; S, susceptible). Samples of infected cotyledons, first and second leaves of 14‐day‐old seedlings were collected at 3, 6, 9, 21 and 24 h post‐inoculation (hpi) and 7 days post‐inoculation (dpi) and stained for appressoria and haustoria observation and tissue necrosis evaluation. Occurrence of appressoria on host surfaces was higher in leaves compared with cotyledons but unrelated with DM resistance response. Haustoria growth in mycelium was delayed in R accessions from 3 hpi, and signs of cell hypersensitivity reaction were observed at 9 hpi. At 24 hpi, necrotic spots limited pathogen growth in resistant accessions, whilst mycelium invaded larger mesophyll areas and produced more haustoria in susceptible ones. At 7 dpi, sporulation was heavy in S, restricted to droplet deposition sites in PR, and did not occur in R hosts. A rapid response of R accessions resulted in slower mycelium growth and longer infection periods. These traits have important agronomic value and should be considered in germplasm selection for breeding programmes aimed at crop protection. A better understanding of the host response to DM infection will allow selection of more suitable wild rocket accessions in future breeding programmes.

Muga (Antheraea assamensis) silk electrospun scaffold for biomedical applications

Abstract Wild silk varieties are less explored in the field of biomaterials than cultivated mulberry silk (Bombyx Mori). In the present work, an electrospun scaffold was produced from wild silk, muga (Antheraea assamensis), and it was assessed for the properties required for biomaterials. Scanning electron microscopy images showed that the electrospun fibers were formed without beads, and the majority of the fibers had diameters in the range of 500–900 nm. The scaffold started to decompose at 210 °C, which is higher than the temperature used for sterilization of the scaffold. The PBS uptake percentage was found to be 400 %, which is sufficient for the absorption of the medium used during cell culture. The scaffold had a hemolysis value of less than 5 %, which indicates that the scaffold exhibits good blood compatibility. The MTT assay showed cell viability of more than 80 % after 24 h and 48 h, and fluorescence microscopy showed that cells adhered and spread on the surface of the scaffold. The results show that muga silk electrospun mat can be used as an ideal biomaterial.

Review on Ethno Medicinal Activities of Wild Varieties of Orchids used by the Ethnic Group of Northeast India

Review on Ethno Medicinal Activities of Wild Varieties of Orchids used by the Ethnic Group of Northeast India

Salinity Tolerance of Diplotaxis tenuifolia Varieties Growing in Spring–Summer Season Under Mediterranean Greenhouse and Optimal Growing Conditions

Salinity is one of the principal abiotic stresses that occurs in the Mediterranean area, causing loss of productivity and decrease of vegetable crop quality. The effect of salinity (0, 25, 75, 150 mM NaCl) was evaluated in three Diplotaxis tenuifolia varieties (Dragon Tongue, Capriccio, Piccante), previously selected for salinity tolerance and high glucosinolates production in leaves. The aim of this research was to explore the salinity tolerance of three wild rocket varieties cultivated under optimal temperature conditions and under high temperature that typically characterized the Mediterranean greenhouse. Biometric, biomass, pigment production and physiological parameters were evaluated. Biometric, physiological, and biochemical parameters significantly varied because of variety, salt level used and environmental conditions. PCA analysis highlighted that the two cultivation systems deeply affected the wild rockets response to salt stress. In general, under optimal growing conditions, wild rocket varieties showed higher growth parameters compared to greenhouse conditions. Overall Capriccio was the most susceptible variety to salinity, while Dragon Tongue (V1) and Piccante (V3) were more tolerant to salt stress. Furthermore, in both growing conditions V1 was the less productive variety while V3 showed an opposite trend. Interestingly, gene (DtOxo and DtGst) expression analysis revealed a significant increase of the target gene expression as response of salinity levels, with a clear increase of DtOxo level in V1 and V3. The results obtained in this study can be useful to plan future breeding programs aimed to increase rocket quality grown under Mediterranean conditions.

Zinc foliar application may alleviate drought stress in wheat species through physiological changes

Drought is the greatest threat to food security in the climate change scenario, which affects crop plants' growth and development by disturbing the plant's physiological and biochemical processes. Zinc (Zn) is an essential micronutrient in many metabolic processes and may improve plant tolerance to water deficit conditions besides its nutritional value.This study investigated the reaction of several wheat species with different ploidy levels to foliar Zn application under water stress. Water stress significantly reduced grain yield (GY), leaf relative water contents (RWC), chlorophyll (Chla and Chlb), and carotenoid (Car) contents. Water stress also impacted several other physiological characteristics by increasing leaf hydrogen peroxide (HP), free proline (Prl), malondialdehyde (MDA) contents, soluble protein (PC), sodium content (Na+), and antioxidant enzymes, including peroxidase (Pox), ascorbate peroxidase (Aes) and catalase (Cat). Remarkably, the Zn application alleviated yield reduction caused by water stress. Moreover, the Zn application increased grains' Zn, potassium content (K+), and K+/Na+ ratio, RWC, Chl, Car contents, Pox, Aes, and Cat activities while significantly reducing MDA, HP, and Na+ contents compared with the control treatment. Pox, Aes, and Cat activities increased to higher concentrations in 6x and 4x than in 2x, indicating that the 6x and 4x species responded better to water stress. Wild and landrace varieties of 4x, such as T. dicoccum, T. ispahanicum, and T. dicoccoides, showed better water stress tolerance than the landrace varieties of 2x and 6x species. These species may be a valuable genetic source for improving modern bread and durum wheat to water stress.

Results of evaluating the early maturity and yield potential of wild vetch varieties growing in Moscow Oblast

Wild-growing varieties are used in the breeding of Vicia sativa L. in order to expand genotypic diversity and improve the environmental stability of created varieties. In order to find wild-growing vetch possessing valuable breeding traits, 22 specimens from 15 countries were evaluated. Tests were conducted in a field experiment in the south of Moscow Oblast in 2018, 2020, and 2021. The ‘Vera’ variety served as the reference. On the basis of three-year data and in accordance with the International Classification of Vicia sativa L., the specimens were evaluated for early maturity, crop and seed production, seed size, leading shoot length, branchiness, number of pods per plant, and number of seeds in a pod. All the specimens were characterized by early maturity of fodder mass and seeds. The three-year average duration of the “sprouting- crop ripeness” period amounted to 34.7-46.3 days, while that of “sprouting-seed maturity” reached 59.0-67.5 days. In wild-growing specimens, the dry weight of the plant in the phase of crop ripeness ranged from 1.0 to 5.0 g (18-92 % of the reference). The fodder mass yield per plant was lower than that of the reference variety due to the poorer development of lateral shoots. Nineteen specimens were at the same level as or superior to the reference variety in terms of plant height. The three-year average seed yield of the specimens varied from 1.3 to 3.2 g (28-70 % of the reference). An analysis of seed yield showed that all specimens produced fewer pods than the reference. However, seven specimens were identified to be annually superior to the reference in terms of other traits: seed size (kk-36830, 36831, 36837, 36848, and 36850); the average number of seeds in the pod (kk-36871); the maximum number of pods in a node; the number of pods and the number of productive nodes on the leading shoot (kk-36879). These specimens are of interest for use in breeding vetch for seed yield.

Differential effects of domesticated and wild Capsicum frutescens L. on microbial community assembly and metabolic functions in rhizosphere soil.

Rhizosphere microorganisms play crucial roles in the growth and development of plants, disease resistance, and environmental adaptability. As the only wild pepper variety resource in China, domesticated Capsicum frutescens Linn. (Xiaomila) exhibits varying beneficial traits and affects rhizosphere microbial composition compared with its wild counterparts. In this study, we aimed to identify specific rhizosphere microbiome and metabolism patterns established during the domestication process. The rhizosphere microbial diversity and composition of domesticated and wild C. frutescens were detected and analyzed by metagenomics. Non-targeted metabolomics were used to explore the differences of metabolites in rhizosphere soil between wild and domesticated C. frutescens. We found that the rhizosphere microbial diversity of domesticated variety was significantly different from that of the wild variety, with Massilia being its dominant bacteria. However, the abundance of certain beneficial microbes such as Gemmatimonas, Streptomyces, Rambibacter, and Lysobacter decreased significantly. The main metabolites identified in the wild variety included serylthreonine, deoxyloganic acid, vitamin C, among others. In contrast, those identified in the domesticated group were 4-hydroxy-l-glutamic acid and benzoic acid. Furthermore, the differentially enriched pathways were concentrated in tyrosine and tryptophan biosynthesis, histidine and purine-derived alkaloids biosynthesis, benzoic acid family, two-component system, etc. This study revealed that C. frutescens established specific rhizosphere microbiota and metabolites during domestication, which has important significance for the efficient utilization of beneficial microorganisms in breeding and cultivation practices.

Structure and Diversity of Endophytic Bacteria in Maize Seeds and Germinating Roots.

Seed endophytes in maize, which facilitate the transmission of microorganisms from one plant generation to the next, may play a crucial role in plant protection and growth promotion. This study aimed to investigate the effects of various maize varieties on the communities of endophytic bacteria in seeds and germinating roots. This study utilized Illumina high-throughput sequencing technology to examine the structural and diversity differences of endophytic bacterial communities within seed maize (BY1507), silage maize (QQ446), and wild maize (Teosinte) in both seeds and germinating roots. The results showed that 416 bacterial genera were detected, with Pantoea, Lachnospiraceae, Pararhizobium, Enterobacteriaceae, Stenotrophomonas, and Pseudonocardia being the most prevalent (relative abundance > 10%) at the genus level. No significant difference was observed in diversity indices (Chao1, ACE, Shannon, and Simpson) of seed endophytes among BY1507, QQ446, and Teosinte. The Shannon and Simpson indices for the germinating root endophyte from the wild variety (Teosinte) were significantly higher than the domesticated varieties (BY1507 and QQ446). PCoA revealed a notable overlap in the endophytic bacterial communities from the seeds of BY1507, QQ446, and Teosinte. Yet, clustering patterns were found. Co-occurrence network analysis showed that BY1507, QQ446, and Teosinte share a notable proportion of shared endophytic bacteria (>30%) between the seeds and germinating roots. This investigation elucidates the characteristics of endophytic microbial communities of seeds and germinating roots with seed maize, silage maize, and wild maize, offering data for future research on the physiological ecological adaptation of these endophytic microbial communities.