Cotton Genomics and Genetics 2024, Vol.15, No.2, 81-92 http://cropscipublisher.com/index.php/cgg 81 Review Article Open Access Taxonomic Classification of Gossypium: Historical Perspectives and Modern Advances Xuanjun Fang Hainan Institute of Tropical Agricultural Resources, Sanya, 572025, Hainan, China Corresponding email: xuanjun.fang@hitar.org Cotton Genomics and Genetics, 2024, Vol.15, No.2 doi: 10.5376/cgg.2024.15.0008 Received: 02 Feb., 2024 Accepted: 06 Mar., 2024 Published: 20 Mar., 2024 Copyright © 2024 Fang, This is an open access article published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. Preferred citation for this article: Fang X.J., 2024, Taxonomic classification of Gossypium: historical perspectives and modern advances, Cotton Genomics and Genetics, 15(2): 81-92 (doi: 10.5376/cgg.2024.15.0008) Abstract This study provides a comprehensive overview of the taxonomic classification of the genus Gossypium, tracing its historical development and highlighting modern advancements. It elucidates the evolution of classification methods and their impact on cotton breeding, conservation, and research. The findings reveal that the significant shift from traditional morphological classification to molecular phylogenetics and genomic sequencing technologies has improved species delineation and resolved taxonomic ambiguities. The integration of multi-omics approaches and bioinformatics tools has further enhanced the understanding of genetic relationships and evolutionary processes within the genus. Additionally, the application of CRISPR and genetic editing technologies has opened new avenues for functional genomics and trait manipulation in breeding programs. The advancements in Gossypiumtaxonomy have profound implications for the future of cotton breeding and conservation. Accurate classification and a deeper understanding of genetic diversity facilitate the development of improved cotton varieties and effective conservation strategies. Continued interdisciplinary collaboration and the adoption of cutting-edge technologies are essential for advancing Gossypium research and addressing global agricultural challenges. Keywords Gossypium; Cotton taxonomy; Molecular phylogenetics; Genomic sequencing; Genetic diversity; Cotton breeding 1 Introduction The genus Gossypium, commonly known as cotton, belongs to the Malvaceae family and comprises approximately 50 species distributed across tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, excluding Europe (Viot and Wendel, 2023). Gossypiumspecies are notable for their economic importance, particularly in the production of natural fibers. The genus includes both diploid and allotetraploid species, with the latter resulting from polyploidization events that have significantly influenced their evolutionary trajectory (Paterson et al., 2012; Hu et al., 2019). The evolutionary history of Gossypium is marked by rapid diversification and complex phylogenetic relationships, which have been elucidated through extensive molecular and genetic studies (Cronn et al., 2002; Wu et al., 2018). Gossypiumspecies are of immense agricultural and economic significance due to their role in the global textile industry. Gossypium hirsutumand Gossypium barbadense are the two primary species cultivated for their superior fiber qualities, with G. hirsutum being the most widely grown due to its high yield and adaptability, and G. barbadense valued for its superior fiber properties (Yuan et al., 2015; Wang et al., 2018; Hu et al., 2019). Beyond their economic value, Gossypiumspecies also serve as a model for studying polyploidy and plant domestication, providing insights into the genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying fiber development and environmental resilience (Zhang et al., 2018; Yang et al., 2020). Additionally, the genus has ethnobotanical relevance, with various species used in traditional medicine for their antimicrobial properties (De Lima et al., 2021). This study aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the classification of the Gossypium genus, tracing its historical perspective and highlighting modern advancements. By integrating data from phylogenetic studies, genomic analyses, and ethnobotanical research, the study elucidates the evolutionary relationships within the genus and the genetic basis of its domestication and diversification. This study will also explore the impact of recent genomic discoveries on cotton breeding and improvement, emphasizing the potential to enhance fiber quality and environmental adaptability. Through this integrated analysis, the study aspires to offer a detailed
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