Development of EST-SSR markers and population genetic structure and genetic diversity of the Malus transitoria (Batalin) C. K. Schneider in Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau

Malus transitoria (Batalin) C. K. Schneider is a shrub or small tree species native to in and around the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau (QTP). Using 18 pairs of EST-SSR markers, we examined 142 samples from 8 wild populations M. obtained QTP. Genetic diversity had been high at level showed mean expected heterozygosity (He) Shannon's information index (I) per population were 0.573 0.921, as well genetic WD (He = 0.595, I 0.974) greatest, whereas that BS 0.541, 0.870) was lowest. The MKH lowest (Nm 5.034), while Gene Flow (Nm) 6.076. Molecular variance analysis (AMOVA) demonstrated moderate differentiation among populations, Within Populations variation (95%) significantly higher than Among (5%), which complies coefficient (Fst 0.057). Two clusters grouped similar Unweighted Pair Group Method with Arithmetic (UPGMA) clustering principal coordinates (PCoA) STRUCTURE analysis. We speculate long-term orogeny prevents gene exchange across leading limited flow loss resources. This research investigated structure natural order provide scientific basis conservation, breeding, rational utilization this germplasm resources may be preserved by combination in-situ conservation ex-situ (MKH population). Expanding number ex-site could preserve smallest (XQ other s conserved protect