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(American Journal of Botany. 2007;94:184-193.)
© 2007 Botanical Society of America, Inc.

Article

Conservation genetics of an endemic and endangered epiphytic Laelia speciosa (Orchidaceae)1

Irene Ávila-Díaz4 and Ken Oyama

2Centro de Investigaciones en Ecosistemas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Antigua Carretera a Pátzcuaro No. 8701, Col. Ex-Hacienda de San José de la Huerta, 58190 Morelia, Michoacán, México; 3Facultad de Biología, Universidad Michoacana de San Nicolás de Hidalgo (UMSNH), Edif. R planta baja, Ciudad Universitaria, 58040 Morelia, Michoacán, México

ABSTRACT

We used isozymes (16 loci in 11 enzymatic systems) from Laelia speciosa, an endemic and endangered epiphytic orchid of Mexico, to assess the genetic diversity and population genetic structure in nine populations distributed along its geographic range, as well as to detect those populations that are genetically unique and therefore deserve high-priority protection. On average, the genetic diversity was high (percentage of polymorphic loci, Pp = 76%, mean number of alleles per locus, A = 3.34, the average observed heterozygosity HO = 0.302, the average expected heterozygosity HE = 0.382). Moderate levels of inbreeding ( f = 0.216, 95% confidence interval = 0.029–0.381) were found. Low levels of genetic differentiation were observed among populations ({theta}p = 0.040); however, there was a significant correlation between geographic and genetic distances among the populations (Mantel test: r2 = 0.43, P < 0.05). Populations located within the same mountain range were genetically more similar. Private alleles were found, so proper management requires protection and maintenance of genetic diversity throughout its range. In case of reintroduction, we suggest using individuals propagated from seeds from as many capsules as possible, from close populations. An ex situ conservation strategy also is proposed.

Key Words: conservation genetics • epiphytic orchids • isozymes • Laelia speciosa • Mexico • Orchidaceae






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