Genetic diversity and differentiation of Sinocalycanthus chinensis populations revealed by chloroplast microsatellite (cpSSRs) markers

To explore the endangered status of Sinocalycanthus chinensis, we examined the genetic diversity within and among S. chinensis populations using chloroplast microsatellite (cpSSRs) markers. Of the eight loci examined, five were monomorphic and three were polymorphic. A total of 13 different cpSSR alleles among 160 individuals was found. Genetic diversity at the population level was low (P = 9.375%, A = 1.0938, N-e = 1.0194, 1=0.0263, h = 0.0146), and genetic diversity at the species level was also relatively low (P = 37.5%, A = 1.6250, N-e = 1.1069, 1=0.1072, h = 0.0598). AMOVA analyses showed that variation existed mainly among populations (75.47%) rather than within populations (24.53%). Gene flow (N-m) estimated from G(st) was 0.1616. The test of isolation-by-distance via Mantel analysis showed significant association between genetic and geographical distances (r(2) = 0.9530, p = 0.048). Eight populations were clustered into two main groups: an eastern group and a westem group. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.