Mixed Mating System, Dispersal Limitation Shape, and Spatial Genetic Structure of Tamarix chinensis on Isolated Wudi Seashell Island
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Tamarix chinensis Lour. is a halophytic shrub native to coastal China, commonly used in afforestation and ecological restoration due to its high tolerance to salinity and drought. To understand how this species maintains genetic variation and adapts to extreme environments, we examined the genetic diversity, mating system, and spatial genetic structure of a natural T. chinensis population on the geographically isolated and environmentally harsh Wudi Seashell Island. Using both SSR and ISSR markers, we observed high levels of genetic diversity despite the small population size and spatial fragmentation. SSR markers revealed an average of 11.75 alleles per locus, with an expected heterozygosity (He) of 0.754 and an observed heterozygosity (Ho) of 0.702. ISSR markers showed a polymorphic locus rate of 97.87%, with a mean He of 0.402. Parentage analysis revealed relatively long seed and pollen dispersal distances, with most dispersal occurring within 150 m and seeds and pollens occasionally reaching 948 m and 447 m, respectively. The species exhibited a mixed mating system, with a multilocus outcrossing rate of 0.554, contributing to gene flow and reducing inbreeding. A fine-scale spatial genetic structure was detected within 75 m, consistent across both SSR and ISSR markers, suggesting limited local gene dispersal. These findings provide new insights into the adaptive strategies of T. chinensis in marginal habitats and offer valuable guidance for conservation and restoration efforts in vulnerable coastal ecosystems.
Source: Diversity
DOI: 10.3390/d17040285
Authors: Binghuang Zhang, Xiao Lan, Shengchang Yang, Ma Hui
Institutions: Xiamen University, Ministry of Natural Resources
Language: English
Subfield: Genetics
Domain: Life Sciences
SDG: Life on land
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,534
Award: G1168650498
OpenAlex ID: W4409565207