Hybridization of Lycium qingshuiheense and L. ningxiaense revealed using morphological, SSR markers, and chloroplast genomic data

Based on analyses of morphological traits, SSR markers, and cp. genome data, L. qingshuiheense and L. ningxiaense are likely hybrids resulting from out-crossing between L. ruthenicum and L. barbarum. However, genetic composition of L. qingshuiheense is derived from approximately 85% L. ruthenicum and 15% L. barbarum, Similarly, the variant of L. ningxiaense shows a genetic composition consisting of 40% derived from L. ruthenicum and 60% from Lycium barbarum. The present study elucidated the origin of two Lycium species, which enhances our understanding of the evolutionary mechanisms underlying interspecific hybridization in Lycium. These findings clarify the evolutionary history of these taxa, as well as provide molecular tools and genetic insights for developing improved Lycium varieties with desirable agronomic traits.