Euterpe precatoria var. precatoria Variation
The Amazon basin is undergoing continuous devastation, with global consequences. In this context, the palm Euterpe precatoria, the most widely distributed species in the region, plays a crucial role for traditional riverine populations. Due to its broad distribution across different forest and soil types, E. precatoria exhibits characteristics that make it suitable for forest restoration. Additionally, the species is extensively exploited for acai extraction. We sampled 23 natural populations in the Brazilian states of Amazonas and Rondonia, characterizing them using single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers. We divided the dataset into putatively neutral and outlier SNPs (under selection) to estimate genomic diversity and structure. To identify potential causes of selective pressure, we explored the factors that may have contributed to the differences and similarities between the two datasets. Our results suggest that acai extraction may be impacting the species' genomic diversity. We also found significant population structure, likely shaped by limited gene flow influenced by river flow and anthropogenic activity. Based on these patterns, we propose sampling at least 35 individuals per site across 17 localities to capture the species' genomic diversity. The genomic groups identified here should be considered in future conservation and restoration initiatives involving E. precatoria.