Adaptation genomics of wild tomatoes

• Applicant: Professor Dr. Wolfgang Stephan
• Subject Area: Evolution and Systematics of Plants and Fungi
• Term: from 2012 to 2018
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 222181639

As wild tomato species dwell in a variety of habitats, ranging from mesic to very dry conditions and from sea level up to 3500m in elevation, they are regarded as ideal model system for studying adaptation to abiotic stresses in plants. With a comprehensive sampling of populations of Solanum chilense, covering its distributional range and diverse habitats, we investigate the genomic signatures of adaptation employing two complementary approaches (population genomics and candidate gene analysis), thereby utilizing advantages of Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) technologies. Based on single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) data at the genomic level and a suite of population genetic tests, we will determine ‘outlier’ loci, which have been subject to recent positive selection. Then, using dozens of candidate genes and up-to-date analytical methods, we will link adaptive phenotypic variation to genes. The project will promote our understanding of adaptation in plants.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants