RAD-sequencing improves the genetic characterization of a threatened tree peony (Paeonia ludlowii) endemic to China: Implications for conservation

作者：Yu-Juan Zhao, Genshen Yin, Xun Gong · 发表于：Acta Botanica Yunnanica · 年份：2022 · DOI：10.1016/j.pld.2022.07.002 · 被引用次数：18 · 研究领域：Genetic diversity and population structure、Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies、Genetic Mapping and Diversity in Plants and Animals

Compared with traditional genetic markers, genomic approaches have proved valuable to the conservation of endangered species. Paeonia ludlowii having rarely and pure yellow flowers, is one of the world's most famous tree peonies. However, only several wild populations remain in the Yarlung Zangbo Valley (Nyingchi and Shannan regions, Xizang) in China due to increasing anthropogenic impact on the natural habitats. We used genome-wide single nucleotide polymorphisms to elucidate the spatial pattern of genetic variation, population structure and demographic history of P. ludlowii from the fragmented region comprising the entire range of this species, aiming to provide a basis for conserving the genetic resources of this species. Unlike genetic uniformity among populations revealed in previous studies, we found low but varied levels of intra-population genetic diversity, in which lower genetic diversity was detected in the population in Shannan region compared to those in Nyingzhi region. These spatial patterns may be likely associated with different population sizes caused by micro-environment differences in these two regions. Additionally, low genetic differentiation among populations (Fst = 0.0037) were detected at the species level. This line of evidence, combined with the result of significant genetic differentiation between the two closest populations and lack of isolation by distance, suggested that shared ancestry among now remnant populations rather than contemporary gen...