Genetic diversity, population structure, and conservation of Cattleya trianae (Orchidaceae) through molecular marker analysis
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.15517/kdq4we73Keywords:
biodiversity, endangered species, genetic analysis, nuclear markers, cpSSR, OrchidaceaeAbstract
Introduction: Cattleya trianae Linden & Rchb., celebrated for its botanical splendour, holds a revered status as the national floral emblem of Colombia, commonly known as the “Flor de Mayo” (Flower of May). However, its survival is threatened by a variety of environmental and anthropogenic pressures, needing urgent and tailored conservation and management strategies to conserve the remarkable genetic diversity of C. trianae in the central Andean range of Colombia. Objective: To elucidate the genetic architecture of C. trianae populations using random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) and chloroplast microsatellite repeat (cpSSR) markers, providing critical insights for conservation planning, sustainable management, and the use of this species. Results: RAPD analysis reveals unexpectedly high levels of heterozygosity, suggesting considerable genetic variability. Genetic distances and dendrogram topologies indicate significant relatedness between populations, while analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) reveals considerable population structuring, primarily due to intrapopulation differentiation. FST and Nm values challenge the assumption of isolation by distance, reflecting a complex genetic landscape. Notably, despite the limited population sizes, there is no substantial evidence of genetic erosion. Conclusions: The results reveal alarmingly low intraspecific genetic diversity within these orchid populations, highlighting their vulnerability to environmental change and stochastic events. Furthermore, the marked genetic divergence between populations suggests the influence of multiple evolutionary forces shaping the genetic structure and distribution of C. trianae in Colombia. These findings underscore the urgency for tailored conservation strategies to mitigate potential extinction risks.
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