| Non-model introduced plants, like Chorispora tenella, have been observed expanding
their range in response to anthropogenic environmental changes. Originating from western Asia,
C. tenella now pervades North America. It possesses traits correlated with herbicide resistance,
suggesting it may become increasingly difficult to control and more ecologically disruptive in
coming years.
In this study I perform a population genomic analysis of a whole genome sequence
dataset from Chorispora tenella populations collected around the Northwestern United States.
Using a de novo reference assembly, I investigated population relatedness using Principal
Component Analysis, ADMIXTURE, Fst, and phylogenetic reconstruction. Contrary to
expectations, I found wide genetic variation with limited admixture among populations. A subset
of individuals showed genetic differentiations from the broader dataset, initially hypothesized as
Strigosella africana, a phenotypically similar non-native species. However, analysis were more
consistent with multiple introductions of C. tenella, though distinct species cannot be fully ruled
out.
The complex introduction history revealed here suggests that C. tenella may have the
adaptive potential to respond to control efforts, including herbicide resistance. This study
contributes to the sparse genomic data available for non-model introduced species, which is
critical for building a foundation to anticipate and manage invasions. However, species
management should be understood as a socio-ecological issue as well as a biological one. Not all
introduced species are harmful and how they are managed can have adverse effects for the local
and Indigenous communities that have accepted them. Integrating socio-ecological perspectives
into genomic approaches strengthens our ability to manage invasions responsibly.
Keywords: population genomics, non-native species, genetic variation, socio-ecological, de novo
reference |