Genetic Diversity Analysis of Rhododendron vialii Based on Microsatellite Marker

PurposeThe genetic diversity of Rhododendron vialii was analyzed to speculate the cause of the endangerment.

MethodSSR molecular marker technology was used to analyze the genetic diversity and genetic structure of 155 individuals from 4 populations of R. vialii in Yunnan Province.

ResultA total of 57 polymorphic alleles were identified in 155 individuals across 8 loci analysis with a mean value of 6.0 alleles per locus. We found a moderate high genetic diversity at species level (N_e=2.780±0.166, N_a=5.563±0.269, I=1.156±0.057, H_o=0.546±0.038, H_e=0.598±0.025), AMOVA analysis showed that the genetic diversity of red honeysuckle was 81% within the population and 19% between the populations, and the genetic differentiation coefficient (F_st) of the population was 0.094±0.020. The inbreeding line number (F_is) in the population is 0.088±0.081. Structure analysis indicated that 155 individuals were clustered into 2 distinct lineages.

ConclusionThe main reason for the endangered R. vialii is habitat destruction, genetic diversity has not been greatly affected for the time being, it is suggested that local protection should be taken as the main measure.