Abstract

AB The Azores provide an excellent field test for research activities aimed at developing conservation strategies for endangered tree species. In this work, the urgency to promote Picconia azorica conservation programs addressed (a) insights into the biotaxonomy of the species (including an evaluation of its origin and relationships with the only congeneric species of P. azorica: P. excelsa from the Canary and Madeira islands) and (b) the evaluation of P. azorica genetic diversity. Plastid DNA sequence analysis and molecular markers (RFLP and SSR) were used for this purpose. Phylogenetic data suggest the monophyly of Picconia and support a late Miocene divergence of the two species. Three polymorphic cpSSR loci allowed the identification of five different haplotypes in P. azorica. Uniqueness and relictuality of lineages are presented and discussed. Picconia azorica intra-specific diversity patterns revealed low genetic diversity and a weak genetic structure, which could result from long-lasting ecological stability and efficient inter-island seed movement that have been severely affected in recent times. The species survival is at risk, and we suggest management practices focusing on ex situ and in situ conservation units based on eco-genetic data. Additional measures contributing to mild erosion of the genepool and to remove barriers to seed dispersal are indicated.

Autore Pugliese

• Attimonelli Marcella

Tutti gli autori

• ATTIMONELLI M.

Titolo volume/Rivista

Non Disponibile

Anno di pubblicazione

2011

ISSN

1612-4669

ISBN

Non Disponibile

Numero di citazioni Wos

19

Ultimo Aggiornamento Citazioni

Non Disponibile

Numero di citazioni Scopus

24

Ultimo Aggiornamento Citazioni

Non Disponibile

Settori ERC

Non Disponibile

Codici ASJC

Non Disponibile