Unraveling the Genetic Complexity of Invasive Lonicera spp.: Evidence of Hybridization from Nuclear and Chloroplast Genome Analysis

Abstract

Members of the Lonicera genus, commonly known as honeysuckles, encompass both native and invasive species in North America, the latter posing significant ecological challenges. Invasive honeysuckles can disrupt native ecosystems by outcompeting local flora, altering habitats, and affecting wildlife populations. Effective management and control of these species are critical but hindered by the difficulty of accurate identification due to overlapping morphological traits. Traditional control measures recommended by government agencies, such as cutting, burning, and chemical treatments, have proven only partially effective, sometimes complicated by misidentification of species. The morphological identification of invasive honeysuckles is notoriously challenging. Key distinguishing features are often subtle, variable, and sometimes only discernible during specific developmental stages, complicating field identification efforts. This taxonomic ambiguity underscores the urgent need for more precise identification methods that transcend conventional morphological assessments. In this study, we explore the molecular identity of a Lonicera isolate collected from the Finger Lakes region of Western New York. Through detailed genetic analysis, we demonstrate that the specimen likely possesses maternal inheritance from Lonicera tatarica while the majority of its nuclear genome is associated with Lonicera insulara. Both species are prevalent in the region and known for their invasive potential. Our findings highlight the utility of molecular techniques as a complementary tool for species identification within the Lonicera genus. By providing a clearer genetic framework for distinguishing between morphologically similar species, this approach can enhance conservation strategies, inform management decisions, and improve ecological restoration efforts. As invasive species continue to threaten biodiversity, integrating molecular diagnostics with traditional methods offers a promising path toward more effective environmental stewardship.