The role of genome duplication in big sagebrush growth and fecundity

Premise Adaptive traits can be dramatically altered by genome duplication. The study of interactions among traits, ploidy, and the environment are necessary to develop an understanding how polyploidy affects niche differentiation restoration strategies for resilient native ecosystems. Methods Growth fecundity were measured in common gardens 39 populations big sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata) containing two subspecies ploidy levels. General linear mixed-effect models assessed much trait variation could attributed genetics (i.e., climatic adaptation), environment, gene–environment interactions. Results explained well mixed (80% 91%, respectively). Much was 15% growth 34% seed yield genetics. Genetic mostly attributable with higher production diploids, even a warm-dry typically dominated tetraploids. Population-level genetic also evident related climate each population's origin. Conclusions Ploidy is strong predictor yield, regardless common-garden environment. superior diploids across environments raises question as tetraploids more prevalent than especially environments. Two hypotheses that may explain abundance on landscape include selection drought resistance at seedling stage, greater competitive ability water uptake upper soil horizon.