Phylogenetic Identification of Endemic Lathyrus karsianum and Astragalus globosus from Kars Province

Abstract

Kars province has a very rich floral diversity representing 16% of Turkey's flora, with 1615 species, 71 of which are endemic. It exemplifies Turkey's Caucasian lands, being at the crossing point of Iran-Turan, Euro-Siberian and Mediterranean flora regions as well. The pressure of activities such as excessive and unconscious grazing and field clearing in the region adversely affects the continuity of species that contribute to biodiversity, especially endemic species. Giving molecular identity to endemic plants contributes to conservation and sustainable development of biological diversity. The current study distinguished two endemic species by using the 26S rDNA region.  Lathyrus karsianum, Astragalus globosus, and six GenBank sequences of species in Fabacaece family were used to infer phylogenetic relationships among them. For the amplified and sequenced 26S rDNA region, three variable sites were observed for eight related species. 26S rDNA region for Lathyrus karsianum and Astragalus sarykamychensis were successfully amplified for the first time. The results of the current study could be used in future biodiversity studies to conserve these endemic species.