Genetic Diversity and Geographic Distribution of North American Setaria viridis Populations

Abstract

Setaria viridis is an emerging model system that is used to study C-4 photosynthesis and many other traits relating to agricultural productivity of panicoid grain crops and bioenergy grasses. Originally from China, naturalized populations of S. viridis are widely distributed in North America and contain a high degree of genetic and phenotypic diversity. In this chapter, we estimate the distribution range of S. viridis in North America using a climate-based species distribution model. We then summarize some recent advances in understanding the genetic diversity, population structure, linkage disequilibrium, and biogeography of North American S. viridis populations. We further expound upon the necessity of expanding germplasm collections of S. viridis, our own ongoing collection efforts, and some of the sequence and germplasm resources currently being generated. Finally, we discuss utilizing these tools as a means for genetic dissection of complex traits, potential opportunities for gene discovery, and how our understanding of the natural variation in S. viridis populations will make agriculture a more productive and sustainable industry.