International Journal of Molecular Evolution and Biodiversity 2024, Vol.14, No.5, 241-251 http://ecoevopublisher.com/index.php/ijmeb 247 Figure 3 Analysis of the 60 fig accessions based on SSR markers (Adopted from Sclavounos et al., 2021) Image caption: (A) Principal coordinate analysis (PCoA) of the 60 fig accessions based on eight SSR markers. (B) Estimation of the number of populations K=3 by calculating delta K values. (C) STRUCTURE plot depicting sub-populations. Inferred population structure for K=3. Each individual is represented by bars partitioned into K segments representing the membership fraction in K clusters. The bars are arranged based on geographical eastern approximate coordinate of the accessions (right: most western accession, Italy; left: most eastern accession, Cyprus) (Adopted from Sclavounos et al., 2021) The development of a comprehensive genomic variation map for olive trees, another key Mediterranean crop, has set a precedent for similar studies in figs. The olive tree study identified candidate genes associated with key agronomic traits, such as fruit yield and oil quality, through genome-wide association analyses (Bazakos et al., 2023). These methodologies can be applied to figs to uncover genetic markers linked to desirable traits, thereby enhancing breeding programs and agricultural practices. 8.3 Lessons from genomics research and applications for future breeding strategies The lessons learned from genomics research on Mediterranean crops like olives and carobs can be directly applied to figs. For instance, the olive tree’s domestication involved recurrent genetic admixture events with wild populations, which maintained genetic diversity and facilitated adaptation to different environments (Díez et al., 2015; Julca et al., 2020). Similarly, fig breeding programs can benefit from incorporating wild genetic material to enhance resilience and adaptability.
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