Whole-genome sequencing and morphological characteristics of cultivated black pepper (Piper nigrum) in Thailand
This project aims to integrate high-depth whole-genome sequencing (WGS) and multivariate morphological characteristics to evaluate the genetic diversity, population structure, and phenotypic variation of cultivated black pepper (Piper nigrum) landraces in Thailand. To address regional morpho-genomic discordances and establish definitive genetic fingerprints, WGS was performed on 9 heritage cultivated samples using the Illumina platform (paired-end reads, 151 bp). The generated data are integrated with publicly available international datasets to resolve genomic boundaries and identify high-confidence single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). The outcomes of this project will provide critical genomic and phenotypic resources for germplasm authentication, targeted breeding programs, and the establishment of Geographical Indication (GI) verification for heritage Thai black pepper varieties.