The Genetic Diversity And Populations Structure Of Geum Radiatum: Effects Of Natural History And Conservation Efforts

Geum radiatum is a federally endangered high-elevation rock outcrop endemic herb that is widely recognized as a hexaploid and a relic species. Little is currently known about G. radiatum genetic diversity, population interactions, or the effect of augmentations. This study sampled every known population of G. radiatum and used microsatellite markers to observe the alleles present at 8 loci. F-statistics, STRUCTURE, GENODIVE, and the R package polysat were used to measure diversity and genetic structure. The analysis demonstrates that there is interconnectedness and structure of populations and was able to locate augmented and punitive hybrids individuals within an augmented population. Geum radiautm has diversity among and between populations and suggests current gene flow in the northern populations. This information provides a greater understanding of the genetic sustainability of G. radiatum and what conservation efforts will most help this imperiled species survive.