Abstract
Chloroplast DNA (cpDNA) is a valuable tool for studying plant population
genetics and gene flow by pollen in conifers, particularly through the
application of chloroplast DNA microsatellite markers (cpSSRs). This
study focuses on Chilgoza pine (Pinus gerardiana L.), an
economically and ecologically significant tree species in Afghanistan.
Despite its importance, comprehensive genetic research on Chilgoza pine
has been limited. To address this gap, we developed novel cpSSR markers
based on the Chilgoza pine’s chloroplast genome to assess genetic
diversity, population structure, and pollen dispersal in a population
from Gardiz, Afghanistan. Needle samples from 199 trees across four
subpopulations and two age cohorts (young and old) were collected and
analyzed. Our findings revealed 27 chloroplast microsatellite markers,
of which six exhibited polymorphism. Haplotype analysis identified 32
unique haplotypes, with one most prevalent haplotype. Genetic diversity
analysis showed comparatively high levels of diversity, with no genetic
differentiation between young and old tree cohorts. Fine-scale spatial
genetic structure (FSGS) analysis revealed significant but weak family
structure and relatedness in young cohorts, suggesting
distance-dependent gene flow. Our study underscores the utility of
cpSSRs in characterizing genetic diversity and structure, which is
crucial for the conservation and sustainable management of Chilgoza pine
forests. These findings provide insights for developing conservation
strategies and highlight the importance of genetic marker studies to aid
the preservation of biodiversity that supports local livelihoods.