Data from: Embracing Biodiversity: Multispecies Population Genomics of Leafless Bossiaeas Reveals Novel Taxa, Population Dynamics, and Conservation Strategies

Abstract

Leafless Bossiaea species are a unique group of plants endemic to Australia which present intriguing challenges in taxonomy and conservation due to their morphological simplicity and often small, disjunct populations.

We employed whole genome reduced representation sequencing to enhance our understanding of the population dynamics, diversity, and taxonomy of leafless Bossiaea species. Our dataset comprised 52,539 SNPs across 283 samples from seven leafless Bossiaea species, including six listed threatened species. We examined population structure, phylogenetic relationships, kinship, and gene flow within and between populations.

Based on our population genomic analyses we propose recognition of the novel taxon Bossiaea vombata subsp. orientalis and a change in status from species (B. milesiae) to subspecies for B. fragrans subsp. milesiae. Additionally, we reveal extensive clonal reproduction across species and limited gene flow at distances > 1 km, shedding light on the challenges faced by these species. We advocate a coordinated approach to conservation, focusing on restoring self-sustaining populations and leveraging genetic rescue strategies.

By addressing the population dynamics of multiple species simultaneously in taxonomically challenging lineages, we can make informed choices to safeguard biodiversity and evolutionary potential.