Landscape genomics highlights the adaptive evolution of chickpea

The structure of crop genetic diversity reflects spatial and ecological variations caused by population dynamics during adaptation to different agricultural environments. Landscape genomics can reveal patterns of neutral and adaptive variation related to environmental and spatial heterogeneity. We assembled a collection of 532 chickpea accessions and genotyped them by whole-genome sequencing. We then assessed their genetic diversity and population structure and coupled these data to environmental variables. Environmental and geographic factors played a key role in the diversification of chickpea germplasm.