The Genetic Diversity and Population Structure of the Endemic Alyssum bosniacum (Brassicaceae) from the Central Dinaric Alps, Balkan Peninsula

TL;DR

This study explores the genetic diversity and population structure of the endemic plant Alyssum bosniacum in the Balkans, revealing high genetic variation and possible microrefugia.

Contribution

The study provides new insights into the genetic resilience and population dynamics of a poorly studied endemic plant species in the Balkans.

Findings

Microsatellite data identified two genetic clusters with moderate differentiation and high diversity.

AFLP profiles showed geographically structured but shallow genetic variation.

Chloroplast haplotypes indicated limited divergence and regional clustering.

Abstract

The Balkan mountain ranges are major hotspots of genetic diversity and endemism, yet many species remain poorly studied. One such species is Alyssum bosniacum, a narrow endemic of the Central Dinaric Alps. To fill this gap, we examined 143 individuals from 15 populations across the species’ range using flow-cytometric ploidy determination, amplified fragment length polymorphisms (AFLPs), nuclear microsatellites, and chloroplast DNA sequences. Microsatellite data revealed two genetic clusters, showing moderate differentiation and relatively high diversity. AFLP profiles indicated shallow but geographically structured variation, while chloroplast haplotypes showed limited divergence and regional clustering. Our data suggest possible persistence in multiple microrefugia within the Central Dinaric Alps, although further evidence is needed to confirm this scenario. Despite range fragmentation, genetic variation within the population remains high, indicating evolutionary resilience and supporting the species’ long-term future population stability under current conditions.

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