RAPD was used to access the genetic variability in Aspisdosperma polyneuron, a long-lived, late-reproducing tropical tree, and highly important for the Atlantic Forest. RAPD profiles from adults (pre-fragmentation, >300 years old) and seedlings (post-fragmentation, <<50 years old) were analyzed. Results showed a decrease of genetic polymorphism of post-fragmentation cohorts in small fragments and higher genetic diversity within population. The genetic diversity distribution suggested the establishment of fragments as protected reserves, and the transference of seedlings among fragments for conservation of A. polyneuron.
Aspidosperma; DNA markers; forest fragmentation; genetic variability; Peroba-rosa; RAPD
