Analysis of cpDNA trnL-trnF sequences of Huperzia serrata var. longipetiolata of different geographical populations

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the variation of chloroplast DNA(cpDNA) trnL-trnF gene sequences and the geographical origins of Huperzia serrata var. longipetiolata, so as to provide reference basis for its protection and utilization. PCR direct sequencing was applied to detect the chloroplast DNA trnL-trnF gene sequences of 126 samples collected from 21 populations (19 in Fujian and 2 in Jiangxi) of Huperzia serrata var. longipetiolata. Then sequence analysis was performed by means of Clustal X and MEGA 5.0. The cluster diagram was constructed by UPGMA method. The length of trnL-trnF of all samples was 928 - 967 bp; the aligned sequence length was 925 bp; and the average content of G + C was 34.05%. There were 20 variable sites and 5 informative sites in these sequences. The cluster diagram by UPGMA method showed great variance between Fujian and Jiangxi geographical populations, which should be classified as different clusters. The 19 populations in Fujian were divided into three clusters, 11 of them with no genetic distance. The results indicated that genetic differentiation and gene flow of the populations of Huperzia serrata var. longipetiolata are in relatively high level, which is beneficial to the survival and evolution of the populations. The variation of trnL-trnF sequence of Huperzia serrata var. longipetiolata populations is related to their geographical distribution, especially related to the isolation of mountain ranges.