The Genomic Basis of Edaphic Specialization in Streptanthus (Brassicaceae)

The genus Streptanthus (Brassicaceae) is a group of approximately 35 herbaceous vascular plant species restricted to North America, with a center of diversity in the state of California. Streptanthus is known for highly specialized edaphic ecology, particularly to infertile serpentine soils. More than half of all Streptanthus species are totally endemic to serpentine, and serpentine tolerance likely evolved several times during the diversification of the genus. Here we present the reference genome of S. diversifolius, which will aid in discovering the genetic basis of edaphic specialization, especially the genetic basis of heavy metal tolerance and hyperaccumulation. Such insights may lead to improvements of closely related crops in the Brassicaceae, as well as industrial applications in phytoremediation and phytomining.