Xin Zhang ¹ , Pengkun Qiu ¹ , Degang Zhao ^1,2

1 Plant Conservation & Breeding Technology Center, Guizhou Key Laboratory of Agricultural Biotechnology/Biotechnology Institute of Guizhou Province，Guizhou Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guiyang, 550006, China
2 National-local Joint Engineering Research Center of Karst Region Plant Resources Utilization & Breeding (Guizhou), College of Life Sciences/Institute of AgroBioengineering,Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China
Author    Correspondence author
International Journal of Molecular Ecology and Conservation, 2024, Vol. 14, No. 2   
Received: 17 Jan., 2024    Accepted: 29 Feb., 2024    Published: 11 Mar., 2024

This is an open access article published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

This stusy explores the population genetics and conservation strategies for Eucommia ulmoides, a relict tree species endemic to China. The review synthesizes findings from various genetic studies, revealing high genetic diversity within populations, driven by outcrossing and long-distance gene flow, yet identifying genetic bottlenecks in some populations due to habitat fragmentation and overharvesting. The study underscores the importance of both in situ and ex situ conservation methods, combined with sustainable use practices, to maintain the genetic integrity of the species. A case study from the Wuling Mountains provides unique insights, demonstrating the impact of geographic and climatic factors on phenotypic variation and highlighting the role of local communities in gene flow through seed exchange. These findings offer valuable guidance for broader conservation efforts, emphasizing the need for informed strategies to ensure the long-term survival and adaptability of Eucommia ulmoides.

Eucommia ulmoides; Population genetics; Conservation strategies; Genetic diversity; Wuling Mountains