# Endangered with High Dispersal Abilities: Conservation Genetics of Himantoglossum metlesicsianum (Teschner) P. Delforge (Orchidaceae) in the Canary Islands

## TL;DR

This study explores the genetic diversity and connectivity of a rare orchid species in the Canary Islands, revealing surprisingly high genetic variation despite its fragmented distribution.

## Contribution

The study develops new microsatellite markers and reveals high genetic diversity and connectivity in a rare orchid species.

## Key findings

- The orchid Himantoglossum metlesicsianum shows high genetic diversity despite being rare and fragmented.
- Populations exhibit low genetic differentiation and high connectivity, suggesting effective seed and pollen dispersal mechanisms.
- The species may use both long- and short-distance seed dispersal, along with pollen cross-pollination between sites.

## Abstract

Himantoglossum metlesicsianum is a threatened orchid with low population numbers and fragmented distribution, present in four of the Canary Islands. This study focused on assessing the genetic variability and population genetic structure of the natural populations known to date, identifying those characteristics of the species that condition the flow and genetic variation. For that purpose, we collected samples from eight sites in its distribution range and developed 14 polymorphic microsatellite markers. Despite its rarity, this orchid presents high levels of genetic diversity and a homogeneous population structure, characterised by a low degree of genetic differentiation and patterns consistent with high genetic connectivity among populations. Our results suggest that the species might show dichotomy in seed dispersal, combining long- and short-distance events. In addition, it is possible that pollen cross-pollination (pollinia) between adjacent sites may also be involved. In conclusion, these findings reveal unexpectedly high genetic diversity and connectivity among populations, despite the species’ rarity and fragmented distribution, highlighting key biological traits that should be considered in future conservation and recovery plans.