Analysis of DNA polymorphism in Lithuanian populations of Saxifraga hirculus L

We used RAPDs (random amplified polymorphic DNAs) to analyze genetic diversity in the arctic-alpine yellow marsh Saxifrage (Saxifraga hirculus L.) which is considered to be a glacial relict. Five populations from different regions of Lithuania were studied. A total of 76 individuals were examined in this research. By RAPD analysis 93 loci were detected, of them 71% were polymorphic. All the plants showed different RAPD phenotypes. The percentage of polymorphic bands within populations correlated with population size. UPGMA and PCO analyses showed the genetic specificity of the populations. The genetic distance among individuals in different populations ranged from 0.225 (Juodlė population) to 0.29 (Merkinė population). Some populationspecific minor loci were identified in the Merkinė and Juodlė populations.