Phylogeography Reveals Geographic and Environmental Factors Driving Genetic Differentiation of Populus sect. Turanga in Northwest China.

ABSTRACT: Populus sect. Turanga (hereafter referred to as "Populus"), including Populus euphratica and Populus pruinosa, are the predominant tree species in desert riparian forests in northwestern China. These trees play key roles in maintaining ecosystem balance, curbing desertification, and protecting biodiversity. However, the distribution area of Populus forests has been severely diminished and degraded in recent years due to increased habitat destruction and human activity. Understanding the genetic diversity among Populus individuals and populations is essential for designing conservation strategies, but comprehensive studies of their genetic diversity in northwest China are lacking. Here, we assessed the population structures and genetic diversity of

SUBMITTER: Gai Z 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8385373 | biostudies-literature | 2021

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature