Low genetic diversity within Caribbean patches of Pelliciera rhizophorae, a Neotropical mangrove species with reduced distribution

Genetic diversity was analyzed within 12 populations of the pinuela mangrove Pelliciera rhizophorae from the American Caribbean and Pacific coasts using ten microsatellite molecular markers. Low diversity was found within the Caribbean populations (allelic richness = 2.131, Ho = 0.059, He = 0.133); whereas the Pacific ones were significantly richer (allelic richness = 4.041, Ho = 0.238, He = 0.372), notably in central populations such as Chame and Utría (total alleles: 12 and 9, respectively). Deviations between observed and expected heterozygosity under Stepwise Mutation Model were detected in the Panamanian Caribbean and Ecuadorian populations indicating recent bottlenecks. Based on these results, we are introducing the first recommendations about use of genetic criteria for recovering and conservation of this mangrove species.

► Genetic diversity was analyzed in populations of the mangrove Pelliciera rhizophorae.
► Low genetic diversity was found within Caribbean populations.
► Pacific populations showed levels of genetic diversity higher than Caribbean.
► Conservation and management programs are required for this vulnerable species.