Differential levels of genetic diversity and divergence among populations of an ancient Australian rainforest conifer, Araucaria cunninghamii

Abstract

Historical fragmentation and subsequent isolation has affected the levels of genetic diversity in many lineages of ancient plant taxa. This study investigated the effects of historical processes on Araucaria cunninghamii (Hoop Pine), Araucariaceae, using both RAPD and ISSR markers. While most populations maintain moderate levels of diversity, there is some evidence for reduced genetic variation. Most sampled populations are significantly differentiated from each other, thereby emphasizing the high degree of population structuring in A. cunninghamii. Increased divergence among the northern Queensland populations relative to southern Queensland populations suggests historical pressures have impacted differently on extant population distribution. More research is specifically required into the biology and population demographics of Australian Araucariaceae.