Projects

Photo (c) IRD - JC Pintaud

Date Palm Genome Diversity Project (2019-2024) - Funded by New York University Abu Dhabi 

Project leader: M. Purugganan (NYU/NYUAD)

Scientists involved from our team : M Gros-Balthazard, Y Bourgeois, M Besseiche

The goal of this project consists in sequencing hundreds of date palm genomes, as well as closely related species. The data obtained will provide an unprecedented assessment of the genetic diversity of this keystone species of oasis agrosystems. We will determine how domestication and agricultural practices shaped current diversity, as well as the role of selection and past introgression from close relatives.