Genomic analysis unveils reduced genetic variability but increased proportion of heterozygotic genotypes of the intensively managed mezcal agave, <i>Agave angustifolia</i>

Abstract

The considerable heterozygosity found in espadín is contained within a network of highly related individuals, displaying high linkage disequilibrium generated by decades of clonal propagation and possibly by the accumulation of somatic mutations. Wild A. angustifolia, on the other hand, represents a significant genetic diversity reservoir that should be carefully studied and conserved.