Studies On Conservation Genetics In Cupressus Chengiana, An Endangered Species

Cupressus chengiana S.Y.Hu, a conifer of the genus Cupressus in Cupressaceae, is an precious species endemic to Sichuan and Gansu Province in China, which has been nominated as the 2^nd class protection plants in. Living in arid-hot valleys at an elevation of 1500～2600m, C. chengiana shows significant adaptability to the environment with high tolerance for less fertile soils and dry and cold habitats, and can even grow on rocky cliffs and hillsides. It is a priority for forestation and soil and water preservation in the upper reaches of Changjiang River because of its fine capability of water resources conservation. On the other hand, since C. chengiana is characteristic of it's fine timber and special aroma, it has extensive histories of use in furniture making, temple construction, and boat building. The natural populations of C. chenegiana once distributed extensively in the upper reaches of Minjiang, Daduhe and Balonghe rivers. However, recently, the distribution areas of C. chengiana dwindled gradually and individuals became fewer sharply owing to badly destroyed environments, over-logging, grazing and its biological characteristics.In this research, the genetic diversity and genetic structure of C. chenegiana...