Editorial: Genetics, evolution, and utilization of germplasm in crop improvement

Genetic diversity of different plant species is fundamental for trait development (Chung et al., 2023). By using either advanced sequencing or mutagenesis, knowledge of genetic diversity has been enriched in five newly published studies of Prunus tenella, Lagerstroemia indica, Pisum sativum, Polygonati odorati and Ipomoea batatas. Each study focused on specific genetic aspects, such as the P. tenella mitochondrial genome structure and unique gene transfer patterns, L. indica chloroplast genome emphasizing photosynthesis gene evolution and boundary shifts, and P. sativum SNP-based diversity highlighting population
structure in landraces and cultivars. Together, these studies reveal phylogenetic
relationships and adaptive traits, which could further support targeted breeding,
conservation, and improved resilience in agricultural contexts. These findings
collectively enrich genetic resources for many critical plant species.