#  New Publication - Genomic Analysis of Pedicularis furbishiae 

 





January 07, 2026

 

 

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   ![Furbish’s lousewort (Pedicularis furbishiae Watson) and geographic distributions](/sites/g/files/omnuum6796/files/styles/hwp_1_1__720x720_scale/public/2026-02/DW_ConsGenFig1.jpg?itok=b7YdcDHe) 

 

Postdoctoral Fellow Dawson White has led the publication of the first reference genome and a population genomic analysis of *Pedicularis furbishiae*, a globally rare plant restricted to dynamic riverbank habitats along the Wolastoq (Saint John) River in Maine and New Brunswick.

Together with researchers from US and Canadian academic institutions and Natural Resources Canada the team identified four genetically distinct populations and explored their genetic diversity, uniqueness, and potential for natural gene flow. They found evidence for the breakdown of seed dispersal and recruitment in New Brunswick, probably caused by changing hydrological dynamics and anthropogenic loss of habitat. The work helps guide an integrated conservation strategy combining seed banking, ex situ propagation, and carefully managed genetic rescue from Maine into New Brunswick.

**White, D.M.**, Normandeau, E., Lamothe, M. *et al.* Genomic analysis reveals population structure and guides conservation actions of the endangered plant, *Pedicularis furbishiae* (Orobanchaceae). *Conserv Genet* **27**, 13 (2026). [https://doi.org/10.1007/s10592-025-01729-8](https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__doi.org_10.1007_s10592-2D025-2D01729-2D8&d=DwMFaQ&c=WO-RGvefibhHBZq3fL85hQ&r=FsR5a5BTGsG2RlrMKCzWzL14AK5LP1gsxK0_j7aUjkM&m=uh0aSlb1K1X-BYcq1hUMEAi_NQK8PJ8uA6SVdsff1oKtnJQcyTyduvGM-XRGEqhu&s=7wk6Bc_FOKLG2kEWdzQhtxhrMU1evKr_EoWF3oHOsVI&e=)



 

 

 



 

 

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