Genome assembly and structural genome annotation of Laminaria pallida

Here, we investigate the molecular basis of life stage identity and reproductive mode in the kelp Laminaria pallida, a multicellular organism with a complex life cycle. By combining gene expression analyses with developmental experiments and natural population-level approaches, we identify the genetic networks that govern developmental state transitions in both sexual and asexual contexts.

We show that the capacity for asexual reproduction is broadly retained but rarely expressed in natural populations and is associated with reduced fitness. Moreover, we find that the presence of potential mating partners suppresses asexual development, revealing that reproductive mode is actively adjusted in response to reproductive opportunities. Together, these findings suggest that asexual reproduction functions as a conditional alternative to sex, promoting persistence when sexual reproduction is constrained while preserving the long-term benefits of sexual reproduction when mates are available.