Using four AFLP markers and seven polymorphic microsatellite loci, we examined the
genetic structure of the rare and endangered Spiranthes parksii Correll (Orchidaceae).
Spiranthes parksii is not distinguishable from sympatric S. cernua (L.) Rich based on
these data, though low levels of polymorphisms exist within both. These low levels of
genetic diversity are likely a result of high levels of agamospermic reproduction through
adventitious embryony. These results suggest that both S. parksii, as well as the
sympatric, open flower form of S. cernua, are products of the more widely distributed S.
cernua complex. Further, another local form of S. cernua, distinguished by its tendency
to produce closed flowers is genetically distinct from both S. parksii, as well as the openflower
form of S. cernua, as shown by AFLPs and microsatellite loci. This is the first
known set of microsatellite primers developed specifically for use in Spiranthes. The
application of these markers may be used to address other unresolved relationships
among species of Spiranthes, many of which are also endangered or have populations in
decline.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:tamu.edu/oai:repository.tamu.edu:1969.1/4814 |
| Date | 25 April 2007 |
| Creators | Walters, Catherine |
| Contributors | Manhart, James |
| Publisher | Texas A&M University |
| Source Sets | Texas A and M University |
| Language | en_US |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Book, Thesis, Electronic Thesis, text |
| Format | 4852837 bytes, electronic, application/pdf, born digital |
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