Study of Diversity and Genetic Structure of Cagaita, Cajuzinho-do-Cerrado and Pequi Populations for Conservation and Sustainable Management Purposes

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study is to investigate the genetic diversity and population structure of cagaita, cajuzinho-do-cerrado, and pequi populations, with the purpose of providing scientific foundations for the conservation and sustainable management of these plant species.   Theoretical Framework: Investigations into the genetic diversity of species such as cagaita, cajuzinho-do-cerrado, and pequi are fundamental for elucidating their population structures and genetic variability. These studies employ population genetics models and gene flow analyses, forming a robust foundation for determining the conservation and sustainable management needs of these species, which are vital aspects for the preservation of the Cerrado's biodiversity.   Method: Leaf samples were collected from adult individuals of the three species, maintaining a minimum distance of 200 meters between trees, in three locations with different levels of anthropization in the Cerrado. DNA extraction followed the procedures outlined by Doyle and Doyle (1990), with some adaptations. ISSR oligonucleotides from the UBC Collection were used for the PCR reactions, and the products were analyzed by agarose gel electrophoresis. The generated data were processed using binary matrices and the UPGMA method for genetic similarity analysis.   Results and Discussion: The adapted DNA extraction protocol was effective for cagaita and pequi but inefficient for cajuzinho-do-cerrado due to its leathery leaves, suggesting the use of other tissues like floral buds. Dendrograms showed significant genetic diversity among cagaita accessions and similar diversity in pequi. Clustering by genetic similarity indicated small isolated populations, signaling a risk of genetic erosion if forest fragmentation continues, which could affect genotype distribution and compromise species survival.