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Conservation genetics of an endemic and endangered epiphytic Laelia speciosa (Orchidaceae)
Author(s) -
ÁvilaDíaz Irene,
Oyama Ken
Publication year - 2007
Publication title -
american journal of botany
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.218
H-Index - 151
eISSN - 1537-2197
pISSN - 0002-9122
DOI - 10.3732/ajb.94.2.184
Subject(s) - biology , genetic diversity , inbreeding , endangered species , orchidaceae , conservation genetics , range (aeronautics) , population , locus (genetics) , ex situ conservation , ecology , allele , zoology , evolutionary biology , genetics , microsatellite , demography , materials science , composite material , sociology , habitat , gene
We used isozymes (16 loci in 11 enzymatic systems) from Laelia speciosa , an endemic and endangered epiphytic orchid of Mexico, to assess the genetic diversity and population genetic structure in nine populations distributed along its geographic range, as well as to detect those populations that are genetically unique and therefore deserve high‐priority protection. On average, the genetic diversity was high (percentage of polymorphic loci, P p = 76%, mean number of alleles per locus, A = 3.34, the average observed heterozygosity H O = 0.302, the average expected heterozygosity H E = 0.382). Moderate levels of inbreeding ( f = 0.216, 95% confidence interval = 0.029–0.381) were found. Low levels of genetic differentiation were observed among populations ( θ p = 0.040); however, there was a significant correlation between geographic and genetic distances among the populations (Mantel test: r 2 = 0.43, P < 0.05). Populations located within the same mountain range were genetically more similar. Private alleles were found, so proper management requires protection and maintenance of genetic diversity throughout its range. In case of reintroduction, we suggest using individuals propagated from seeds from as many capsules as possible, from close populations. An ex situ conservation strategy also is proposed.