Can Repeated Reductive Genome Evolution Across Archaeplastida Explain Volatility in Traits?
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Genome sequencing efforts have covered phylodiverse Archaeplastida, the lineage of plants and algae that bears primary plastids. In these efforts, gene gains and novelties are a major focus of comparative genomic analyses. Yet, ancestral reconstructions increasingly infer extensive gene loss in major lineages, challenging narratives that emphasize continual gains in complexity. In this perspective, we examine evidence for recurrent genome contraction across photosynthetic eukaryotes, focusing on red algae, the ancestry of land plants, and subsequent diversification within embryophytes. Recent studies suggest that ancestors of modern lineages often possessed larger and more complex gene repertoires than their descendants. We argue that repeated cycles of genome expansion and reduction have generated substantial trait volatility, making gene loss a central driver of eukaryotic evolutionary innovation and diversification.
Source: Advanced Genetics
DOI: 10.1002/ggn2.70048
Institutions: University of Göttingen, Campus-Institut Data Science (CIDAS)
Language: English
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,750
Awards: G109852973, G1906777466, Koordinationsfonds, G3317303093, G3953187464, G4526854055, Klebsome: Genomdiversität und Anpassungen an terrestrische Habitate in Klebsormidiophyceen, G5485993587, G6004009250, G680535423, Carotology: Sind Apocarotinoide konservierte Modulatoren der Streptophytenphysiologie?
OpenAlex ID: W7223578141