Abstract Detail

Population Genetics

Hay, Nikolai [1], Ulrey, Chris [2], Kauffman, Gary [3], Murrell, Zack E. [4], Estep, Matt C. [5].

The diversity of populations and genetic structure of the rare endemic Geum radiatum .

Geum radiatum Michx (Rosaceae) commonly known as Appalachian Avens or Spreading Avens, is a high-elevation rock outcrop, federally endangered, Southern Appalachian endemic herb, which is widely recognized as a relic species. G. radiatum is a charismatic plant, historically sought after by botanists, which has been negatively affected by botanical collecting and has received considerable conservation attention. G. radiatum is a hexaploid (2n=6x=42) and little is known about it’s genetic diversity, population interactions, and the long and complicated history of conservation strategies with introductions, reintroductions, and augmentation of populations. In past attempts to increase genetic diversity and populations size plants have been moved 100s of miles from one population to another. Previous genetic work has focused on highly conserved allozyme loci or comparative studies between G. radiatum and G. peckii using RAPD’s. This study has sampled populations across the narrow range of G. radiatum and employed 11 microsatellite markers to explore the genetic diversity of this species. A history of augmentations and reintroductions has also been constructed that identifies where plants are from and when those plants were relocated. Using these resources and the discrete nature of populations of G. radiatum it becomes possible to assign individuals into original populations before augmentation and describe the current genetic structure of extant populations. The majority of the genetic diversity was identified in the largest populations, and the most unique populations were geographically isolated on the periphery of the species range. This information provides a greater understanding of the genetic structure of populations and should be utilized to sustainability protect the most valuable populations G. radiatum and help this imperiled ice age relic species survive on a warming earth.

1 - Appalachian State University, Biology, 572 Rivers Street, Boone, NC, 28608, USA
2 - National Park Service , Blue Ridge Parkway, 199 Hemphill Knob Rd , Asheville, NC, 28803, United States
3 - National Forest Service, 160 Zillicoa St, Asheville, NC, 28801, USA
4 - APPALACHIAN ST UNI, Department Of Biology, 572 RIVERS ST. RANKIN SCI BLDG, BOONE, NC, 28608, USA
5 - Appalachian State University, 572 Rivers Street, Boone, NC, 28608, United States

Keywords:
Geum radiatum
Conservation genetics
population genetics
Rosaceae.

Presentation Type: Poster
Session: P, Population Genetics Posters
Location: Exhibit Hall/Savannah International Trade and Convention Center
Date: Monday, August 1st, 2016
Time: 5:30 PM This poster will be presented at 6:15 pm. The Poster Session runs from 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm. Posters with odd poster numbers are presented at 5:30 pm, and posters with even poster numbers are presented at 6:15 pm.
Number: PPG014
Abstract ID:833
Candidate for Awards:Genetics Section Poster Award