Genome and transcriptome sequencing to study vegetative desiccation tolerance in Selaginella

To better understand the evolution of vegetative desiccation tolerance (VDT), we generated chromosome-level assemblies and genome annotations of two Selaginella species with contrasting abilities to survive desiccation. The study includes the desiccation-tolerant Selaginella sellowii and the desiccation-sensitive Selaginella silvestris. Explants for the transcriptomic analyses were collected at 100%, 80%, 60%, 40%, and 20% RWC for both S. silvestris and S. sellowii. Additionally, tissue was collected at the desiccated state and during rehydration (2 and 6 h) for the desiccation-tolerant S. sellowii. Sister group comparisons during water loss and recovery stages allowed the identification of key responses and protection mechanisms in the resurrection species that are absent in the desiccation-sensitive species.