Metabolomic profile of the invasive species Carpobrotus sp.pl.: Genetics and environmental influence

Abstract

Invasive species pose a challenge for the conservation of biodiversity and the sustainable management of natural resources, especially in the context of climate change. One of the most dangerous examples is the genus Carpobrotus sp.pl., juicy plants native to South Africa. These species have demonstrated an astonishing ability to propagate and acclimate under adverse conditions. Carpobrotus has naturalized in numerous habitats beyond its area of distribution. It is often found in extreme habitats, such as dunes and cliffs, which are ecosystems characterized by hostile environmental conditions. Given the adaptation required, these habitats are home to communities of endemic plants of high ecological value displaced by the presence and proliferation of Carpobrotus. In the context of climate change, it is essential to understand the adaptation mechanisms of these plants for effective management. Metabolomics presents itself as a valuable tool for this purpose, as it allows to study the metabolites produced and accumulated by the plant in response to changing environmental conditions. This is important to understand how you adapt to stressors. For this reason, the metabolomic profile of Carpobrotus sp.pl seedlings from four populations in Spain, belonging to two different genetic clusters and from two different climatic areas, has been studied. The analysis was carried out using gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS). In addition, climate characteristics and morphological parameters were evaluated. This approach provides information on how genetic and environmental factors influence the adaptation of plants belonging to this invasive genus.