Genetic Diversity of Halocnemum strobilaceum (Pall.) M.Bieb. (Amaranthaceae) in South-West Iran: Insights from Molecular Markers and DNA Barcoding

The Earth hosts a complex and diverse array of plant species, and analyzing their genetic diversity is essential for advancing biodiversity conservation. In this study, we investigated the genetic variation of Halocnemum strobilaceum in Khuzestan Province, located in southwestern Iran, a region characterized by extreme heat and belonging to the Saharo-Sindian floristic zone. To assess the genetic structure of the species, we employed ISSR, SCoT, and DNA barcoding markers (ITS and trnH-psbA). Accessions were categorized based on ecogeographic differences between inland saline and coastal marsh habitats. Both marker systems revealed considerable variation, and barcoding identified three distinct ITS and two trnH-psbA haplotypes. These results enhance our understanding of genetic differentiation in H. strobilaceum and inform conservation planning. As a halophyte with potential medicinal and economic uses, preserving its genetic resources is vital for sustainable utilization. In the face of escalating environmental threats, such integrative studies are key to protecting vulnerable plant taxa in extreme habitats.

کلیدواژه ها:

Halophytes ، Molecular Variation ، Haplotypes analysis ، Conservation genetics