Study on the characteristics of genetic diversity and population structure of a rare and endangered species of Rhododendron nymphaeoides (Ericaceae) based on microsatellite markers.

backgroundRhododendron nymphaeoides is explicitly listed as an endangered species in the "the International Union for Conservation of Nature's Red List (IUCN)", "The Red List of Rhododendrons", "Red List of China's Higher Plants" and "Threatened Species List of China's Higher Plants". It is also listed as a provincial-level key protected wild plant in Sichuan, with few individuals in the wild and significant conservation value. The genetic diversity and population structure have never been described, making it difficult to plan conservation strategies for this plant.

resultsThis study utilized 15 pairs of microsatellite markers to examine the genetic diversity of 79 samples of R. nymphaeoides sourced from five different geographic populations. A total of 214 alleles were detected, with the average effective number of alleles (N

conclusionsThis is the first comprehensive analysis of the genetic diversity and population structure of the endangered plant R. nymphaeoides using microsatellite markers. The study results indicate that this endangered plant's natural populations maintain a high level of genetic diversity. Due to geographical barriers, there is also a high level of genetic differentiation, with the primary source of genetic variation originating within populations. There is higher historical gene flow and lower contemporary gene flow, with seed and pollen dispersal being obstructed. The five populations can be divided into three evolutionary units, for which corresponding conservation management units should be established. These findings will benefit the conservation and development of the species and provide a theoretical basis for further studies on its evolution and biogeography.