Genetic Diversity and Structure of Pinus densiflora Siebold & Zucc. Populations in Republic of Korea Based on Microsatellite Markers

Pinus densiflora Siebold & Zucc. is a widely distributed conifer species in the Republic of Korea with economic and ecologic importance. However, P. negatively influenced by various factors, such as forest fires, clearing large numbers trees infected disease, dieback. We aimed to use microsatellite markers estimate genetic diversity, differentiation, structure populations Korea. A total 1844 samples from 60 were evaluated using 11 polymorphic markers. The observed heterozygosity expected 0.652 0.673, respectively. mean differentiation among was 0.013. Moreover, showed high diversity low compared species, including similar life histories. Principal coordinates analysis Bayesian clustering that has weak geographical structure. population at Mt. Halla, Jeju Island, lowest significant other mainland due drift restricted gene flow. These findings can be useful for designing new conservation, management, breeding strategies response future environmental changes.