Table mountain pine: Genetics inform conservation strategies
A recent CompassLive article highlights research led by Threat Center scientist Kevin Potter on genetic diversity in table mountain pine, a tree species endemic to the Appalachian Mountains. Potter and colleagues focused on understanding patterns of genetic variation across the distribution of the species, to help guide restoration efforts with a view to conserving that genetic diversity. The study detected only minor genetic differences between trees sampled in different parts of the species’ distribution, including from the northern and southern extents of its entire range. The low differentiation means seeds for replanting could be safely sourced from anywhere in the imperiled species' range. At the same time, isolated populations were less diverse, suggesting that they may need additional gene conservation attention because they are more susceptible to inbreeding. While table mountain pine is not an endangered species, it is a fire-dependent species that has declined greatly in the last century due to fire suppression and changing land uses. It is a species of conservation concern throughout much of its range. Management efforts to maintain table mountain pine include using low-intensity prescribed fire to mimic natural fire regimes, along with seed collection and planting.
Read the full CompassLive article here.
Read the original research article here.
