Establishing the first reference library for utilizing high-throughput sequencing technologies in identifying medicinal and endangered Paris species (Melanthiaceae)

The genus Paris (Melanthiaceae) holds significant pharmaceutical importance and is subject to high conservation concerns. Accurate species identification plays a crucial role in effectively addressing issues related to the exploitation, utilization, and conservation of this plant lineage. Recently, high-throughput sequencing technologies have been employed to generate complete plastid genomes (plastomes) and nuclear ribosomal DNA (nrDNA) arrays as molecular markers for plant species identification. However, the lack of reference libraries poses a substantial challenge to the widespread application of this approach. In this study, we established a comprehensive reference library consisting of complete plastomes and nrDNA arrays from 153 individuals representing all medicinal and endangered Paris species. The robustness of the reference sequences in discriminating Paris species was assessed through phylogenetic and genetic distance analyses. The results demonstrate that both complete plastome and nrDNA reference sequences exhibit a high degree of consistency with species boundaries as defined by recent taxonomic revisions to the genus, thereby facilitating unambiguous species identification. The favorable performance of this reference library underscores its invaluable significance as a genetic resource for the efficient monitoring and regulation of the collection and trade of medicinal and endangered Paris species, along with associated plant products, through the utilization of high-throughput sequencing technologies. The findings of this study will make a significant contribution to enhancing the efficacy and safety assurance of Rhizoma Paridis products, as well as supporting conservation efforts for endangered Paris species.