D3554: Unraveling the role of structural variation in bee environmental adaptation: A super-pangenome analysis of the Osmia genus

Large-scale genomic projects, such as the Beenome100, have been made possible by recent advancements in high-throughput DNA sequencing and computational data analysis. These advancements enable a deeper understanding of bee biology, ecology, and evolution, along with conservation strategies. Pangenomic analyses have emerged as a powerful tool, capturing previously uncharacterized genetic diversity—such as core genes, accessory genes, and structural variants—that are critical for adaptation. In this study, we aim to construct and characterize a super-pangenome for the Osmia bee genus, a group recognized for its essential role in pollinating native ecosystems and economically important crops, including almonds, apples, and cherries, in the United States. Previous research has demonstrated that Osmia bicornis lacks the CYP9Q subfamily of P450 genes, which play a crucial role in detoxification. By using pangenome graph-based analyses, such as PGGB and ODGI tools, we seek to comprehensively map genetic variation across multiple Osmia species, focusing on detoxification and cellular stress response genes (e.g., heat shock proteins [HSPs]). This study will provide the foundation for understanding the genomic basis of adaptation and resilience in this ecologically and agriculturally significant group.