Genetic Diversity Among Pinus Sylvestris L. Populations and Its Implications for Genetic Conservation: Comparison of Nuclear and Chloroplast Microsatellite Markers

Abstract

Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) is one of the most widely distributed forest trees belonging to Pinaceae family in the world. The most southern distribution of its populations is located in Turkey. In this study, altitudinal genetic variation in P. sylvestris populations was determined via cpSSR and nSSR markers. Cones were gathered from 149 trees in five populations that represent five different elevational zones from sea level to 2250 meters in Turkey. A total of 32 alleles were determined for analyzed six cpSSR loci. The cpSSR alleles were formed 87 different haplotypes. The percentage of unique haplotypes was 65.52%. The results of AMOVA showed that the genetic diversity within populations was very high (99.8% for cpSSR and 98.3% for nSSR). Even though the studied populations are peripheral (the most southern ones in the distribution area of Scots pine), their genetic variation is still high. The results suggest that high priority should be given to peripheral populations for in situ conservation activities, as long as they have high genetic variation, because of their potential for adaptation to changing environments. The most suitable populations for forestry practices should be selected with strong emphasis on geographic location and elevation gradients.