P. equestris is the first sequenced plant capable of Crassulacean Acid Metabolism (CAM). Interestingly, when the orchid's CAM loci were compared to those of non-CAM plants the researchers found evidence for gene duplication and loss. Perhaps these mutations led to CAM photosynthesis. The orchid's introns are much longer than those of any sequenced plant, probably due to transposable elements within those introns. Its genes may also help explain the mechanism of self-incompatability in plants.
The sequencers also found evidence for a paleopolyploidy that may have occurred before orchids became as diverse as they are today. Perhaps this polyploidy helped the orchids to radiate as extensively as they did.
Ultimately, the sequencing of P. equestris will aid in conservation and breeding of the orchids as they face more habitat destruction.
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