title: Genetic diversity of an Azorean endemic and endangered plant species inferred from inter-simple sequence repeat markers.
abstract: Knowledge of the levels and distribution of genetic diversity is important for designing conservation strategies for threatened and endangered species so as to guarantee sustainable survival of populations and to preserve their evolutionary potential. Picconia azorica is a valuable Azorean endemic species recently classified as endangered. To contribute with information useful for the establishment of conservation programmes, the genetic variability and differentiation among 230 samples from 11 populations collected in three Azorean islands was accessed with eight inter-simple sequence repeat markers. A total of 64 polymorphic loci were detected. The majority of genetic variability was found within populations and no genetic structure was detected between populations and between islands. Also the coefficient of genetic differentiation and the level of gene flow indicate that geographical distances do not act as barriers for gene flow. In order to ensure the survival of populations in situ and ex situ management practices should be considered, including artificial propagation through the use of plant tissue culture techniques, not only for the restoration of habitat but also for the sustainable use of its valuable wood.
authors: Biotechnology Centre of Azores, Associated Laboratory Institute for Biotechnology and Bioengineering, University of Azores, Rua Capitão João D'Ávila, 9700-042 Angra do Heroísmo, Portugal.
authors: Maria S
authors: MS
authors: Lopes
authors: Biotechnology Centre of Azores, Associated Laboratory Institute for Biotechnology and Bioengineering, University of Azores, Rua Capitão João D'Ávila, 9700-042 Angra do Heroísmo, Portugal.
authors: Duarte
authors: D
authors: Mendonça
authors: Biotechnology Centre of Azores, Associated Laboratory Institute for Biotechnology and Bioengineering, University of Azores, Rua Capitão João D'Ávila, 9700-042 Angra do Heroísmo, Portugal.
authors: Sílvia X
authors: SX
authors: Bettencourt
authors: Biotechnology Centre of Azores, Associated Laboratory Institute for Biotechnology and Bioengineering, University of Azores, Rua Capitão João D'Ávila, 9700-042 Angra do Heroísmo, Portugal.
authors: Ana R
authors: AR
authors: Borba
authors: Biotechnology Centre of Azores, Associated Laboratory Institute for Biotechnology and Bioengineering, University of Azores, Rua Capitão João D'Ávila, 9700-042 Angra do Heroísmo, Portugal.
authors: Catarina
authors: C
authors: Melo
authors: Biotechnology Centre of Azores, Associated Laboratory Institute for Biotechnology and Bioengineering, University of Azores, Rua Capitão João D'Ávila, 9700-042 Angra do Heroísmo, Portugal.
authors: Cláudio
authors: C
authors: Baptista
authors: Biotechnology Centre of Azores, Associated Laboratory Institute for Biotechnology and Bioengineering, University of Azores, Rua Capitão João D'Ávila, 9700-042 Angra do Heroísmo, Portugal amachado@uac.pt.
authors: Artur
authors: A
authors: da Câmara Machado
keywords: Azores; endemism conservation; germplasm management; molecular marker; phylogeography; population genetics.