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Conservation and Management of a Threatened Traditional Agroresource, Ylang‐Ylang, in the Indian Ocean Islands
Author(s) -
Benini Céline,
Mahy Grégory,
Jacquemin JeanMarie,
Fauconnier MarieLaure,
Jardin Patrick,
Bizoux JeanPhilippe
Publication year - 2012
Publication title -
crop science
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.76
H-Index - 147
eISSN - 1435-0653
pISSN - 0011-183X
DOI - 10.2135/cropsci2012.03.0147
Subject(s) - biology , genetic diversity , threatened species , morphometrics , genetic erosion , ex situ conservation , endangered species , genetic structure , genetic variation , ecology , habitat , demography , population , genetics , sociology , gene
ABSTRACT To handle future economic, social, and environmental changes, the assessment, management, and conservation of the local genetic resources of cash crop species is a fundamental requirement. We investigated the pattern of genetic and morphological diversity of ylang‐ylang [ Cananga odorata (Lam.) Hook f. and Thomson forma genuina ], an important essential oil tree in the introduction area of the western Indian Ocean islands. We sought to identify key elements for developing a conservation and management strategy for ylang‐ylang genetic resources. Genetic and morphological variations were assessed using amplified fragment length polymorphism and morphometrics traits. Information about farmers’ practices was collected. The existence of substantial total genetic diversity ( H T = 0.2599) and the grouping of plantations into different genetic groups suggest a series of introduction events in the area, with limited exchanges of genetic material within and between islands. The morphological study revealed high phenotypic variability despite similar agronomical practices. The morphological and genetic variability might have been created and maintained without any planned management. This has determined the genetic structuring in the area (11.74% genetic variation among islands and 20.68% among plantations). On‐farm preservation and the maintenance of the current management practices are recommended. Ex situ conservation efforts should also be undertaken if economically affordable.