Accurate Inference of the Polyploid Continuum Using Forward-Time Simulations.

Multiple rounds of whole-genome duplication (WGD) followed by diploidization have occurred throughout the evolutionary history of angiosperms. Much work has been done to model the genomic consequences and evolutionary significance of WGD. While researchers have historically modeled polyploids as either allopolyploids or autopolyploids, the variety of natural polyploids span a continuum of differentiation across multiple parameters, such as the extent of polysomic versus disomic inheritance, and the degree of genetic differentiation between the ancestral lineages.

A high-quality genome of the convergent lady beetle, Hippodamia convergens.

Here, we describe a high-quality genome assembly and annotation of the convergent lady beetle, Hippodamia convergens (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae). The highest quality unmasked genome comprises 619 megabases (Mb) of chromosomal DNA, organized into 899 contigs, with a contig N50 score of 89 Mbps. The genome was assessed to be 96% complete (BUSCO).

Phenotypic differentiation despite gene flow: Beak morphology, bite performance, and population genetics of Loggerhead Shrikes ().

Previous studies of Loggerhead Shrikes (Laniidae: ) in North America have indicated considerable intraspecific genetic and phenotypic differentiation, but the congruence between genetic and phenotypic differentiation remains obscure. We examined phenotypic differences in beak shape and bite force among geographic groupings across a 950 km range, from the lower Imperial Valley to the upper Central Valley of California, USA. We integrated these analyses with a population genetic analysis of six microsatellite markers to test for correspondence between phenotypic and genetic differences among geographic groups.

Characterizing the microbial metagenome of calcareous stromatolite formations in the San Felipe Creek in the Anza Borrego Desert.

We describe the metagenome composition, community functional annotation, and prokaryote diversity in calcareous stromatolites from a dry stream bed of the San Felipe Creek in the Anza Borrego Desert. Analyses show a community capable of nitrogen fixation, assimilatory nitrate reduction, biofilm formation, quorum sensing, and potential thick-walled akinete formation for desiccation resistance.

Go west: Population genomics reveals unexpected population fluctuations and little gene flow in Western hemisphere populations of the predatory lady beetle, .

-the convergent lady beetle, has been used extensively in augmentative biological control of aphids, thrips, and whiteflies across its native range in North America, and was introduced into South America in the 1950s. Overwintering .  populations from its native western range in the United States are commercially collected and released across its current range in the eastern USA, with little knowledge of the effectiveness of its augmentative biological control.