Complex evolution of East Asian Tertiary relict species revealed by the phylogeography of Lindera obtusiloba

The evolution of East Asian Tertiary relict species is complex, as none of the three proposed scenarios are fully supported, and the diversification within each region differs for L. obtusiloba. Dual refugia in high and low latitudes offer long-term survival, and populations at high latitudes may develop ecological adaptations. Genomic data with richer genetic information and adaptation loci are likely to help elucidate the origin and adaptation history of East Asian Tertiary relicts in the future.