Population structure and genetic variation within Valeriana wallrothii Kreyer in relation to different ecological locations

Abstract

In Italy, Valeriana wallrothii Kreyer, is widespread in northern and central plain and mountain regions. In the last years, a decrease in population number and size was evidenced. This reduction could lead to a loss of genetic richness and compromise species survival. In this work, to estimate genetic structure and variation of eight populations with different provenience and habitats (agricultural, grazing, urbanised and natural parks) were analysed by AFLP and chloroplast SSR markers. Results show low genetic exchange for all the analysed populations, with the exception of the Stelvio National Park population that shows the highest allele richness and genetic variability for both molecular markers. The relationship between genetic variability and habitat characteristics show that V. wallrothii Kreyer is particularly sensitive to anthropic pressures such as grazing and agriculture.