Molecular diversity and genetic lineage of Pinus sylvestris population at Kunpeszér, Kiskunság National Park

Abstract

We analysed genetic variation of the small Scots pine population from the forested area of Northern Kiskunság in comparison with other pine populations from the Carpathians and the Pannonian Basin that we studied earlier by microsatellite markers (SSR). Our results showed that genetic indices based on the five nuclear SSRs are similar to the values detected in other Hungarian pine populations. Based on STRUCTURE analysis, as well as PCoA the population from Northern Kiskunság fits into the Western Carpathians-Pannonian genetic lineage and we did not detect alien genoptypes as well as population specific genotypes. Although, the natural presence of Scots pine cannot be traced back to LGM/early Holocene, the habitat characteristics like the nutrient-poor sandy substrate and the extreme ecological conditions of the site may favor the natural presence of the species in the area. The local forest community including broadleaf species with the dominance of pedunculate oak mixed with Scots pine provide an aspect of a continental woodland community able to preserve valuable species and so an elevated biodiversity. Moreover, gene stock most probably adapted to the local environment might represent a high natural and economic value.