Conservation Genetics of Two Highly Endangered and Poorly Known Species of Zamia (Zamiaceae: Cycadales) in Colombia

Abstract

Genetic diversity is key in providing the variation needed to face stochastic change. Increased habitat loss alters population size and dynamics posing serious threats to the conservation of wild species. Colombia has undergone massive deforestation over the last century, but harbors extraordinary high species diversity of genus Zamia (Cycadales); however, most of the species are under threat. In this study, we targeted the largest accessible remaining populations of 2 closely related species growing as endemics in the Magdalena Valley region of Colombia. We successfully transferred the SSR loci used in previous Zamia studies to these species. In total, we amplified 13 microsatellite loci in 3 wild populations, aiming at: 1) assessing genetic diversity and 2) understanding if the structure found between the 3 populations reflected species and population boundaries due to ecological and historical genetic isolation. We found that the actual population size does not reflect population genetic diversity with a small population (Perales) harboring the highest genetic diversity. In addition, all populations are highly structured regardless of species containment, all showing signs of genetic isolation. Given the high degree of ecological threat, and the inherent biological traits of Cycads, we provide information regarding the prioritization of populations for ex situ management.

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