Genome-wide patterns of genetic diversity, population structure and demographic history in manuka (Leptospermum scoparium) growing on indigenous Maori land

Leptospermum scoparium J. R. Forst et G. Forst, known as manuka by Maori, the indigenous people of Aotearoa (New Zealand), is a culturally and economically significant shrub species, native to New Zealand and Australia. Chemical, morphological and phylogenetic studies have indicated geographical variation of manuka across its range in New Zealand, and genetic differentiation between New Zealand and Australia. We used pooled whole genome re-sequencing of 76 L. scoparium and outgroup populations from New Zealand and Australia to compile a dataset totalling similar to 2.5 million SNPs. We explored the genetic structure and relatedness of L. scoparium across New Zealand, and between populations in New Zealand and Australia, as well as the complex demographic history of this species. Our population genomic investigation suggests there are five geographically distinct manuka gene pools within New Zealand, with evidence of gene flow occurring between these pools. Demographic modelling suggests three of these gene pools have undergone expansion events, whilst the evolutionary histories of the remaining two have been subjected to contractions. Furthermore, manuka populations in New Zealand are genetically distinct from populations in Australia, with coalescent modelling suggesting these two clades diverged similar to 9-12 million years ago. We discuss the evolutionary history of this species and the benefits of using pool-seq for such studies. Our research will support the management and conservation of manuka by landowners, particularly Maori, and the development of a provenance story for the branding of manuka based products.

Automated summary

This study used whole genome re-sequencing to investigate the genetic structure and evolutionary history of the manuka shrub in New Zealand and Australia. The results reveal geographical variation and gene flow between different manuka populations in New Zealand, as well as genetic differentiation between New Zealand and Australia. The findings provide valuable insights for the management, conservation, and branding of manuka-based products.