Genetic Diversity and Conservation Status of Helianthus verticillatus, an Endangered Sunflower of the Southern United States.

ABSTRACT: Evaluating species diversity and patterns of population genetic variation is an essential aspect of conservation biology to determine appropriate management strategies and preserve the biodiversity of native plants. Habitat fragmentation and potential habitat loss are often an outcome of a reduction in naturally occurring wildfires and controlled prescribed burning, as seen in Helianthus verticillatus (whorled sunflower). This endangered, wild relative of the common sunflower, Helianthus annuus, is endemic to four locations in Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee, United States. Despite its endangered status, there is no recovery plan for H. verticillatus, and knowledge related to its basic plant biology and importance in ecosystem services is mostly unknown. In this study,

SUBMITTER: Edwards TP 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7243268 | biostudies-literature | 2020

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature