Population genetic analysis of Shorea robusta Gaertn. Using microsatellite markers: Implications for its conservation

Title : Population genetic analysis of Shorea robusta Gaertn. Using microsatellite markers: Implications for its conservation

Abstract:

The foundation for effective selection practices, breeding, and conservation of forest trees lies in understanding genetic variations, which can be evaluated through the use of molecular markers. Shorea robusta, a wind-pollinated timber species of significant commercial value in southern Asia, has experienced a sharp decline in stocks. It is attributed to factors such as excessive logging, inadequate natural regeneration, overexploitation, and habitat fragmentation. Consequently, there is an urgent requirement to develop robust genetic conservation approaches. In this study, we investigated the genetic diversity and structure of fifteen populations using microsatellite-based marker in the state of Uttarakhand (India). Out of 60 primers, 24 showed polymorphisms. Notably, ten primers were used omitting 14 null alleles. Estimates of genetic diversity (NA=3.69, HO=0.377, HE=0.555) were similar when compared to other tropical tree species. The polymorphism information content (PIC) was noted as 0.252. Also, the gene flow estimate was Nm=0.728 migrant per generation that suggested a very limited gene flow with very low value of genetic differentiation (FST=0.281). In the structural analysis, bar plot for estimated Q-matrix at K=2 for different sampled populations revealed two distinct clusters. Moreover, the AMOVA revealed that most of the genetic variation (76%) was confined within population. The accessibility of sequence information and novel SSR markers through our study, potentially enriches the current knowledge of the genomic background for S. robusta and for implying conservation programs when extrapolated on a large scale. Based on observed genetic diversity, protection of populations is recommended for the sustainable conservation of genetic resources and rare alleles. We therefore recommend that conservation campaigns be used to encourage the sustainable resource management practices to healthify the establishment and growth of Sal. Based on results, protection of populations is recommended for the sustainable conservation of genetic resources and rare alleles.

Keywords: Conservation, Genetic diversity, microsatellites, Shorea robusta.

Biography:

She holds a Ph.D. in Forest Genetics from the Forest Research Institute (Deemed to be University), Dehradun (India), with research expertise in forest genetic diversity, regeneration dynamics, and climate-linked conservation strategies. Her doctoral work focused on Shorea robusta forests in Uttarakhand, integrating molecular, morphological, and geospatial approaches. She has professional experience as a Senior Analyst at the Mangrove Foundation of India and as a Research Fellow at FRI, contributing to carbon/NbS projects, MRV systems, and peer-reviewed publications in reputed journals. She has authored multiple research papers and book chapters and has received several awards, including UGC-NET JRF qualification, Best Presentation and Best Poster awards, and international travel grants from DST-SERB, UCOST, and Wellcome Connecting Sciences. She aims to bridge ecological research with practical conservation and policy applications and actively seeking opportunities for international collaboration, knowledge exchange, and capacity building in forest and environmental sciences.