Genomic and transcriptomic analysis of sacred fig (Ficus religiosa)

Abstract

Peepal/Bodhi tree (Ficus religiosa L.) is an important long lived keystone ecological species. This plant has been widely used by community in Indian subcontinent in traditional medicine, ayurveda and spirituality. Our study was aimed to generate molecular resources from whole genome and transcriptome sequencing approaches. The whole genome of Peepal tree was sequenced using Illumina and MGISEQ-2000 sequencers. We assembled the draft genome (380-Mb) of Peepal tree and annotated 35,093 protein-coding genes. The 53% of its genome consists of repetitive sequences. To understand the photosynthetic pathways in leaf tissues, we analysed photosynthetically distinct conditions: bright sunny day and dark night. The RNA-seq analysis supported the expression of 26,691 genes. The gene expression analysis of day and night period revealed the molecular switches between the Calvin-Benson (C3) cycle, C4-Dicarboxylic cycle and Crassulacean acid metabolism (CAM) cycle for carbon fixation in leaves of Peepal tree.

Emerging Threat of Oxyrachis tarandus Fabricus Infestation on Banyan Trees (Ficus benghalensis Linnaeus)

“…This combination of features renders the banyan tree not only a botanical wonder but also a symbol of cultural significance (Logesh et al, 2023) and ecological prominence, embodying the richness of biodiversity in tropical and subtropical regions (Gopukumar and Praseetha, 2015). However, despite its significance, the banyan tree faces challenges from various pests (Ashalatha et al, 2023). Bark beetles, scale insects, caterpillars, aphids, and leafhoppers are among the common pests that can compromise the health of the banyan tree (Russo et al, 2023).…”