Genetic diversity of a natural population of Mezilaurus itauba (Meisn.) Taub. ex Mez. in the southern Amazon, Brazil

Abstract

Genetic diversity studies in natural forest species populations have consistently expanded in recent years. Considering that biodiversity is directly related to genetic variation among and within populations, its study has become essential to the knowledge of genetic patterns. The study assessed genetic diversity of a Mezilaurus itauba population, detecting similarity and dissimilarity evaluating distribution intensity of adult and juvenile trees in remnant rain forest fragments in southern Amazon, Brazil. Leaf and cambium samples were randomly collected from 36 reproductive individuals. Eleven RAPD (random-amplified polymorphic DNA) primers were tested for genetic similarity analyses. The obtained data demonstrated that the species presented 79.77% polymorphism among the loci observed, with genetic diversity occurring between juvenile and adult trees. The population studied presented genetic diversity, forming three well-distinguished groups.