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bioRxiv · 10.1101/2025.09.18.676927

Spectral network analysis illuminates coordinated trait adaptation across plant populations

Ray, R.·Quarles-Chidyagwai, B.·Ashlock, S.·Lyons, J.·Gremer, J. R.·Maloof, J.·Magney, T.
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Abstract

O_LIUnderstanding how plant populations respond to environmental variation through functional leaf traits remains challenging due to limitations of traditional phenotyping approaches. Hyperspectral reflectance offers a rapid, non-destructive and high-throughput method to capture functional trait variation and detect signatures of local adaptation across populations. C_LIO_LIWe combined hyperspectral data, inverse modeling, and network analysis to investigate population-level variation in Streptanthus tortuosus. Using a common garden experiment with four geographically distinct populations, we applied partial least square discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) and ridge regression for population discrimination, inverse PROSPECT modeling to estimate leaf biochemical traits, and canonical correlation analysis to examine trait-climate relationships across historical (1900-1994) and recent (1995-2024) periods. We developed a spectral network approach treating wavelength correlations as biologically meaningful trait networks. C_LIO_LIPopulations showed distinct, heritable spectral signatures with high classification accuracy. Significant population differences emerged in anthocyanins, carotenoids, chlorophyll, and water content. Trait-climate correlations shifted between time periods, consistent with historical climate adaptation. Network analysis revealed population-specific integration patterns, with more variable environments displaying greater spectral modularity. C_LIO_LIHyperspectral signatures provide a high-throughput tool for detecting population-level adaptation and trait coordination. Our findings provide a framework to investigate how plant populations respond to climate change through evolved shifts in trait networks rather than isolated traits alone. C_LI

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Ray, R., Quarles-Chidyagwai, B., Ashlock, S., Lyons, J., Gremer, J. R., Maloof, J., Magney, T.. 2025-09-21. Spectral network analysis illuminates coordinated trait adaptation across plant populations. https://doi.org/10.1101/2025.09.18.676927

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