Genetic diversity of natural populations of endangered Ormosia hosiei, endemic to China

Ormosia hosiei is native to China and valued for its timber. In order to help preserve this endangered wild species, we investigated the distribution of O. hosiei populations in southern China. Based on ISSR markers, 101 clear and reproducible DNA fragments were generated. Of these, 96 (95.1%) were polymorphic. Shannon’s index (I) and Nei’s gene diversity (h) were 0.5483 and 0.3747, indicating a high level of genetic diversity. Moreover, there was a lack of significant association between genetic and geographical distances in the populations. The distribution of genetic diversity among the wild populations of O. hosiei in southern China may be the result of events in the species’ evolutionary history, including habitat fragmentation and habitat damage caused by human activity. Based on these findings, we suggest that areas with larger populations of O. hosiei should take effective measures to ensure the conservation.

► Although O. hosiei is near-threatened, the genetic diversity was high.
► No clear correspondence between genetic and geographical distance in the populations.
► Fragmentation was one key factor leading to high level of genetic differentiation.
► Losses of individuals have dangerous long-term consequences.
► Larger populations should take effective measures to ensure the conservation.