The genomics of natural selection and adaptation: Christmas past, present and future(?)

Background: Genomic analyses are being applied to 'non-model' species. These complexes are now 'models' for applying genomic approaches to test evolutionary hypotheses. These approaches have revealed the genetic underpinnings of natural selection and adaptation. Aims: We wish to illustrate that the newest techniques in genomics would not be possible without older technological and methodological advances. We also point to the necessity for detailed phenotypic information to reveal the genomics of natural selection and adaptation. Methods: We review studies starting with Watson and Crick through the definition of the polymerase chain reaction to illustrate how newer technologies rest on the platform of older discoveries. We review studies from two plant clades that illustrate various genomic approaches taken to test for natural selection and adaptive evolution. Results: We find that older and newer genomic methodological approaches are necessary to dissect the genetics of natural selection and adaptation. Conclusions: The basis for the newest genomic technologies continues to rest on much older methodological advances. It is not possible to understand the genomic components affecting natural selection and adaptation without phenotypic and genomic data. When such data are combined, they reflect a powerful approach for understanding the mode and tempo of selection and adaptation.