Genetic Diversity, Evolution, and Biogeography of Seabuckthorn

Abstract

Intraspecific genetic diversity is an important characteristic of the evolutionary potential, fitness, and conservation status of any species. Monitoring this characteristic is particularly important in rare, vulnerable, or endangered species with small fragmented populations and in domesticated or cultivated species. Humans have been exploiting seabuckthorn (Hippophae L., Elaeagnaceae) for thousands of years, but its considerable economic potential has only recently been appreciated. Studies of genetic resources in the genus have accumulated valuable information on evolutionary history, biogeography, genetic diversity within populations, population structure, and genes with putative specific adaptive functions in its different species and taxa. The further utilization of genetic resources in seabuckthorn strongly depends on understanding the mechanisms behind genetic patterns in its wild populations and specific evolutionary and ecological mechanisms of adaptations of these populations to local environments. Monitoring and preservation of genetic diversity across the genus have so far been an underappreciated issue, which should be included in further research programs on this plant. Further studies should focus on monitoring genetic diversity in poorly studied taxa, identification of endangered populations under threat of genetic erosion, and on identification of genes controlling important adaptive functions and important agricultural traits. These genes can be a part of genomic regions underlying the adaptation to changing environments, resistance and tolerance to diseases, pests, and abiotic stresses, or biochemical pathways of synthesis of bioactive secondary metabolites with strong potential for local and international marketing. Identification and characterization of these genes can lead to a better understanding of molecular mechanisms of adaptation to past and future climatic fluctuations and environmental modifications. Ultimately, this knowledge will help breeding plants with the desired combination of traits. Specifically, the breeding of varieties of high ecological, medicinal, or nutritional value, adapted to the areas of their cultivation, will be greatly facilitated.