Assessment of genetic diversity and population differentiation of Achyranthes bidentata (Amaranthaceae) in Dao Di and its surrounding region based on microsatellite markers

• No significant genetic diversity differences and genetic differentiation between the Dao Di and its surrounding region.
• Significant temperature difference improves the accumulation of medicinal ingredients of Achyranthes bidentata in Dao Di.
• The divergence of two genetic groups of A. bidentata caused by five bioclimate variables related to temperature.

Identifying genetic diversity patterns is fundamentally important for effective species management and conservation. In this study, we used five microsatellite loci to investigate the genetic diversity and population differentiation of Achyranthes bidentata in Dao Di and its surrounding region. Our analysis of microsatellite data indicated the level of genetic diversity of A. bidentata (HT = 0.333) was lower than other plants. The results showed no significant genetic diversity differences and population genetic differentiation between the Dao Di and surrounding region. Significant temperature differences (Bio2: mean diurnal range and Bio7: temperature annual range) were found between the Dao Di and surrounding region, which may improve the accumulation of medicinal ingredients of populations in the Dao Di. The populations of A. bidentata were divided into two genetic groups, which was caused by five temperature variables (Bio1, Bio4, Bio7, Bio9, and Bio11). This study thus provides an important case for over-collecting within limited ranges in affecting population diversity and bioclimate variables for different producing area in driving population differentiation.