Genetic diversity in North America Pinaceae: a current review

Abstract

In North America, the genetic diversity of Abies, Picea, Pinus, and Pseudotsuga has been analyzed with molecular markers of codominant and dominant nature using information from mitochondrial, chloroplast, and nuclear genomes. The objective of this study was to review the recent research assessing the genetic diversity of Pinaceae in North America (1997-2022) and to analyze the evolutionary processes that explain this genetic diversity. Most studied species have greater genetic diversity within populations and a lesser amount between populations. Microevolutionary mechanisms like genetic drift and gene flow are pivotal in determining whether species are cohesive. Genetic drift and inbreeding emerge as significant factors, particularly in populations with fragmented or restricted distributions, where gene flow between populations is restricted, increasing genetic differentiation. Consequently, these genetic processes must be carefully considered for prioritizing in situ conservation strategies. Monitoring effective population size, quantifying genetic diversity and structure, and scrutinizing both neutral and adaptive microevolutionary processes hold relevance in the conservation efforts concerning the North American Pinaceae family.

Editor asociado/ Associate editor: Jorge Garrido