Genetic diversity in fragmented population of herb-Paris (Paris quadrifolia L., Trilliaceae)

Abstract

Analysis of random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) was used to determine genetic diversity within fragmented population of plant herb-Paris (Paris quadrifolia L.). RAPD analyses have shown 21.9% of polymorphic loci. Part of distinguishable RAPD phenotypes in five groups was 0.68 (range from 0.37 to 1.00). The lowest part of distinguishable RAPD phenotypes (0.37) was found in the mown part of the population. Analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) revealed 76% of the overall genetic variation within plant groups and 24% among plant groups (FPT= 0.23, p = 0.001). An UPGMA dendrogram based on Nei’s genetic distance showed quite a good correspondence between the genetic distances and the degree of isolation among the plant groups. The lowest genetic distance (0.083) was calculated among the groups that were closely located to each other and not separated by any natural barriers. The relatively high genetic variation within the groups of Paris quadrifolia L. population revealed the importance of sexual propagation to the spread of this plant. Keywords: Paris quadrifolia, RAPD markers, natural barriers, fragmented populations, genetic diversity