Admixture and environment shape population genetic and phytochemical variation across a conifer hybrid zone

Abstract

1Ancestry variation in hybrid zones can reflect the causes and genetic basis of reproductive isolation and result in novel phenotypic variation with the potential for extended ecological effects. Junipers (Juniperus) are foundational tree species in many semi-arid landscapes of western North America and often hybridize in zones of secondary contact. Such hybridization can be ecologically significant in foundational tree species, due to the strong genetic control and ecological consequences of plant chemistry. We generated genetic and phytochemical data to analyze hybridization among Juniperus grandis, J. occidentalis, and J. osteosperma in western Nevada and its impact on plant chemistry. We used population genomic data (9,125 SNPs; 326 individuals; 25 populations) to quantify patterns of genetic variation across populations and species and characterize ancestry variation in hybrids. While populations within species showed little genetic differentiation, the parental species formed distinct, monophyletic lineages with clear phenotypic and ecological differences. Hybrids occupied intermediate environments, contained ancestry from all three parents, and were mainly F1 or backcross hybrids. Phytochemical data (GC-MS; 163 terpenoid compounds) were likewise analyzed to understand the consequences of hybridization for plant chemistry. The parental species and hybrids displayed distinct phytochemical profiles, with hybrids often characterized by a combination of transgressive and intermediate chemical concentrations. Our results illustrate that geography and environment shape hybrid ancestry for a syngameon involving three Juniperus species, and that admixture generates novel phytochemical variation likely to have ecological consequences.