Genetic Variation and Population Structure of Dendropanax morbifera Lev. (Araliaceae) in Korea

Abstract

Dendropanax morbifera Lev. (Araliaceae) is an economically important tree species because of its role in the production of golden varnishes as well as its use as an ornamental plant. As an endemic tree species of Korea, it is restricted to the southern parts of Korea as isolated populations. In this study, eight natural populations of D. morbifera were investigated by starch-gel electrophoresis in an attempt to determine the extent of its genetic diversity. Out of 8 natural populations, the Suak population in Jeju island showed the lowest level of genetic diversity, while the Wando island population in Jeonnam showed the highest level of genetic diversity. Levels of genetic diversity maintained in D. morbifera (A/L =1.5, P95 = 27.3%, Ho = 0.100, He = 0.095) were notably lower than those of other tree species with wider and more continuous geographic distributions. The reasons for the low level of genetic diversity in D. morbifera might be due to the genetic drift caused by artificial disturbances. Most of the total genetic diversity (96%) was found within the populations. The UPGMA dendrogram based on Nei’s genetic distance did not show any particular geographic patterns. The low level of genetic diversity suggested that there should be an urgent emphasis on the conservation study of this species.

Effects of Climate Change on the Climatic Niches of Warm-Adapted Evergreen Plants: Expansion or Contraction?

“…It was expected that the distribution of D. morbifera was limited by low temperature; therefore, a warming climate could provide better habitats for D. morbifera [72]. However, our predictions were the reverse, and previous ecophysiological research also supported the possible habitat loss of this species under a warming climate because this species had a low genetic diversity [73] and preferred shading conditions and a sufficient pre-chilling period to produce superb seedlings [74].…”

Living on the Edge: Various Modes of Persistence at the Range Margins of Some Far Eastern Species

“…Reductions in polymorphism levels are caused by population bottlenecks resulting from dramatic decreases in population size. Bottleneck events have been proven to be the most probable reason for low polymorphism levels in relic Araliaceae species such as P. ginseng (Koren et al, 2003) and Dendropanax morbifera (Kim et al, 2006). As mentioned above, O. elatus inhabited deciduous Turgai forests.…”

Rapid green synthesis of silver and gold nanoparticles using<em> Dendropanax morbifera</em> leaf extract and their anticancer activities

“…25 The limited availability of D. morbifera is an important concern for researchers attempting to utilize this plant as a potent nanoparticle synthesizer. Continued research is needed on this topic.…”