Population structure of Phytophthora capsici in the state of Tennessee

Abstract The plant pathogen Phytophthora capsici can be found all throughout the USA, and population genetics of this organism have been studied within many these states. Until now, no work has done in state Tennessee to investigate structure P. there. was explored using 296 isolates collected from five counties 2004, 2007, 2018, 2019. Samples were genotyped 39 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genetic markers. Multiple analyses indicate that exists isolated clusters structured by geography. Geographically separate populations genetically distinct, suggesting there is limited or outcrossing among populations, but significant sexual reproduction occurring populations. These findings corroborate previous studies midwestern northeastern where are generally sexually reproducing This study provides first characterization Tennessee.