Genetic analysis of Rhaponticum carthamoides (Asteraceae) during restoration of natural populations in the Altai Republic

Abstract

Rhaponticum carthamoides (Willd.) Iljin is a rare species for Altai Republic. It possesses medicinal and fodder properties and therefore is considered a valuable resource species. Populations of this species are regularly exposed to anthropogenic impact. The impact factors are harvesting of rhizomes and cattle grazing. We have carried out the restoration of two populations of this species. The seeds for restorative planting were collected from healthy plants in the same populations, at a distance of 10 km or less from the restoration site. The genetic analysis of DNA fragments showed a reliable similarity of genetic diversity in planted and naturally growing individuals in each of the studied populations. Comparison showed that plants in more remote locations, which are less accessible for tourism and economic activities, were characterized by higher genetic diversity.