DOES THE FAXINAL SYSTEM HELP TO MAINTAIN THE GENETIC DIVERSITY OF Curitiba prismatica (D. Landland) Salywon & Landrum?
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Abstract
Background:
Curitiba prismatica, popularly known as murta, is a forest species endemic to the Mixed Ombrophilous Forest and predominant in the Faxinal traditional agricultural system. The present study aimed to select molecular markers and assess whether the Faxinal System contributes to the maintenance of the genetic diversity of the species, thus helping to inform its management and conservation. As such, 120 adult reproductive individuals were sampled, 60 in two areas managed in the Faxinal System, and 60 in two conservation areas.
Results:
From an initial selection of 30 markers, eight ISSR markers were used which resulted in 67 polymorphic loci. The results show that the average diversity within populations is 80.54%. The Shannon (I) and Nei’s (He) diversity indices were 0.53 and 0.36, respectively. According to Nei's genetic identity, the populations form two groups, one consisting of the Faxinal populations and the other consisting of the populations in the conservation areas. This is consistent with the analysis of the genetic structure of the populations which indicated the existence of two distinct genetic groups (K = 2).
Conclusion:
Thus, based on molecular data, the populations in the Faxinal System had higher rates of genetic diversity, despite constant human activity within the system. Therefore, the Faxinal System contributes to the conservation of C. prismatica genetic diversity; however, considering the economic potential of the species and to minimize impacts on the existing fragments, there is a need to work with the local population to ensure sustainable forest management of the species.
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