AFLP-Based Genetic Structure of Lithuanian Populations of Small Balsam (Impatiens parviflora DC.) in Relation to Habitat Characteristics

Currently, there is an increasing focus on understanding the interactions between genetic features of invader and environmental factors that ensure success invasion. The objective our study was to evaluate diversity Lithuanian populations highly invasive small balsam (Impatiens parviflora) by amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) markers relate molecular data biotope defined employing neighboring species herbaceous plants. Low I. parviflora observed at AFLP loci. Hierarchical analysis variance did not reveal differentiation depending biotope, geography, or road types. Bayesian analyses demonstrated many clusters. Our results suggest multiple introductions into Lithuania. loci significantly correlated with total coverage plants in sites. Defined principal component analysis, variability sites most related least populations. were classified agricultural scrubland, riparian forest, urban forest biotopes. Of them, distinguished highest lowest Ellenberg indicatory values for light, soil acidity, richness nutrients.