The Mitogenome of the Subarctic Octocoral Reveals a Putative tRNA Gene Nested within MutS.

We sequenced and analyzed the complete mitogenome of a Norwegian isolate of the octocoral using the Ion Torrent sequencing technology. The 18,790 bp circular mitochondrial genome was found to harbor the same set of 17 genes, which encode 14 protein subunits, two structural ribosomal RNAs and one tRNA, as reported in other octocorals. In addition, we detected a new tRNA-like gene sequence nested within the MutS protein coding region.

Genetic diversity and background pollen contamination in Norway spruce and Scots pine seed orchard crops.

Seed orchards are the key link between tree breeding and production forest for conifer trees. In Sweden, Scots pine and Norway spruce seed orchards currently supply ca. 85% of seedlings used in annual reforestation.