Genetic diversity and structure of the narrow endemic Seseli farrenyi (Apiaceae): implications for translocation

Seseli farrenyi (Apiaceae) is an extremely narrow endemic plant, which is considered as one of the species of most conservation concern in Catalonia (NW Mediterranean Basin). Given the accelerated fragmentation and reduction of population size (of over 90%), the environmental agency of Catalonia is currently preparing a recovery plan that includes reinforcements of the extant populations. The present study is aimed at providing the necessary knowledge to carry out geneticallyinformed translocations, by using microsatellites as genetic markers. Fourteen microsatellites have been specifically developed for S. farrenyi, of which nine have been used. Besides the extant natural populations, the three ex situ collections that are known to exist of this species have also been studied, as they would be the donor sources for translocation activities. Our main finding is that levels of genetic diversity in the natural populations of S. farrenyi are still high (H-e = 0.605), most likely as a result of a predominantly outcrossing mating system in combination with the limited time elapsed since the population decline. However, population fragmentation is showing the first genetic signs, as the values of genetic differentiation are relatively high, and two well-differentiated genetic lineages have been found even in such a narrow geographic range. These genetic results provide important information when designing conservation management measures.

Automated summary

The study found that levels of genetic diversity in the natural populations of Seseli farrenyi are still high, most likely due to an outcrossing mating system and limited time since the population decline. However, population fragmentation is beginning to show genetic signs, with relatively high genetic differentiation values and two distinct genetic lineages found even in such a narrow geographic range. These genetic results are important for designing conservation management measures.