Legume Genomics and Genetics 2024, Vol.15, No.3, 118-125 http://cropscipublisher.com/index.php/lgg 118 Research Report Open Access Genomic Insights into Robinia pseudoacacia: Implications for Silviculture and Beyond Xingde Wang 1, DemingYu2, Qishan Chen2 1 Institute of Life Sciences, Jiyang College, Zhejiang A&F University, Zhuji, 311800, Zhejiang, China 2 Modern Agricultural Research Center, Cuixi Academy of Biotechnology, Zhuji, 311800, Zhejiang, China Corresponding email: qishan.chen@cuixi.org Legume Genomics and Genetics, 2024 Vol.15, No.3 doi: 10.5376/lgg.2024.15.0013 Received: 07 May, 2024 Accepted: 08 Jun., 2024 Published: 19 Jun., 2024 Copyright © 2024 Wang et al., 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: Wang X.D., Yu D.M., and Chen Q.S., 2024, Genomic insights into Robinia pseudoacacia: implications for silviculture and beyond, Legume Genomics and Genetics, 15(3): 118-125 (doi: 10.5376/lgg.2024.15.0013) Abstract Robinia pseudoacacia, commonly known as black locust, is a versatile tree species valued for its rapid growth, nitrogen-fixing ability, and high-quality timber. This study explores the genomic insights uncovered in recent years, providing a comprehensive understanding of the genetic composition and functional genomics of this species. Advances in next-generation sequencing technologies have facilitated the assembly of the black locust genome, revealing key genes and pathways involved in its growth, development, and stress responses. These insights are crucial for improving silvicultural practices, enabling the development of improved varieties with higher growth rates, better wood quality, and increased resistance to pests and diseases. Understanding the genomic basis of nitrogen fixation in R. pseudoacacia can lead to the development of more efficient agroforestry systems, contributing to sustainable agriculture and soil improvement. This study also explores the potential of genetic modification and biotechnological approaches to further enhance the desirable traits of black locust, paving the way for its expanded use in various applications, including bioenergy production and ecological restoration. Overall, integrating genomic data with traditional breeding and silvicultural techniques holds great promise for optimizing the utilization of R. pseudoacacia, addressing both economic and environmental challenges. Keywords Genomic insights; Robinia pseudoacacia; Silviculture; Nitrogen fixation next-generation sequencing 1 Introduction Robinia pseudoacacia L., commonly known as black locust, is a tree species of significant economic and ecological importance. Native to North America, it has been widely planted across the globe for various purposes, including timber production, honey production, and soil improvement. Its adaptability to different environmental conditions and its ability to improve soil fertility through nitrogen fixation make it a valuable species in forestry and agroforestry systems (Malvolti et al., 2015; Dong et al., 2019). The black locust has been extensively utilized in silviculture due to its rapid growth and resilience. In regions such as Hungary, it plays a crucial role in forest management, where superior clones are selected for plantations on varying quality sites (Malvolti et al., 2015). The species’ ability to thrive in diverse environments and its utility in biomass production underscore its significance. Additionally, the genetic diversity within black locust cultivars is essential for maintaining the health and productivity of plantations. Molecular markers, such as SSR (Simple Sequence Repeat) markers, have been employed to assess and conserve this genetic diversity, ensuring the sustainability of black locust populations. This study aims to synthesize the current genomic insights into Robinia pseudoacacia. It will assess the genetic diversity and population structure of Robinia pseudoacacia in different provenances and breeding programs; explore the symbiotic relationship between Robinia pseudoacacia and its associated rhizobia, focusing on the genetic basis of these interactions; and explore the epigenetic variation of Robinia pseudoacacia, especially DNA methylation patterns, and its effects on gene expression and plant development. A comprehensive understanding of the genetic and epigenetic mechanisms behind the adaptability and resilience of this species is of great significance for its conservation, breeding and sustainable management, providing information for forestry practices and enhancing understanding of the potential of Robinia pseudoacacia beyond traditional forestry applications.
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