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Dryad

Transcriptomic findings light on mechanisms of marine and terrestrial evolutionary adaptation of Rhizophoraceae plants

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Apr 15, 2024 version files 69.34 KB
Apr 15, 2024 version files 69.37 KB

Abstract

Rhizophoraceae has 2 terrestrial genera and 4 marine genera. The intertidal zone in which marine mangroves are located is known for its low oxygen and high salinity. Marine and terrestrial genera have evolved distinct adaptive characteristics, among which viviparous reproduction is the most unique. To investigate the genetic foundations difference underlying the adaptive mechanisms of marine–terrestrial genera, we selected two species from Rhizophoraceae. Kandelia obovata is marine and viviparous, and Carallia brachiata is terrestrial and non-viviparous. We compared their transcriptome of 8 tissues (root, stem, leaf, flower, ovule, fruit, seed, embryo) and found that the mature reproductive organs (fruit, seed, embryo) of K. obovata did not reduce metabolic activity compared to C. brachiata. The reproductive organs of K. obovata were regulated by the same gene set as vegetative organs. This contrasted with C. brachiata. Eight kinds of hormone transduction genes were up-regulated in the seed of K. obovata. Finally, and most importantly, the transcriptional factors AP2 and ARF families were significantly more expressed in the reproductive organs of K. obovata than in those of C. brachiata. At the same time, the ERF family was more expressed in its roots. The findings suggested that the hormone transduction may contribute to viviparous initiation. Transcriptional factors were quite crucial for mangroves' adaptation to wetlands.