Genome Wide Analysis Of Admixture In Apis Mellifera Intermissa

Abstract

Unraveling the evolutionary history of Apis mellifera reveals how populations have adapted to diverse environments, resisted disease, and responded to human influence. An admixed population of A. m. intermissa in Morocco has sparked debate over the dispersal routes of A. mellifera and the origin of the European (M) lineage. Yet, despite its identification, the genomic consequences of this admixture remain largely unexplored. We analyzed global and local ancestry, estimated admixture timing, and assessed genetic diversity in this A. m. intermissa population. Our findings reveal recent admixture, occurring ~14 generations ago, with genome-wide diversity reflecting an intermediate value between progenitor lineages. Notable regions on chromosomes 7 and 11 showed high enrichment for M lineage ancestry. Functional enrichment and prior studies suggest these regions influence detoxification, immunity, development, and hormonal regulation. Four QTLs with 18 loci further support M lineage contributions to Varroa destructor resilience. These findings reveal the functional role of M lineage ancestry in North African Apis mellifera populations and offer a framework for further exploring the genomic outcomes of admixture.