Population genetics of Nelumbo lutea (American lotus) near its northwestern range limit

Nelumbo lutea Wild. (American lotus) has a broad and changing geographical distribution that is influenced by human transplanting and changes to climate, hydrology, and habitat. Populations vary from extensive stands where the species appears to be an effective colonizer, to sites where the species has declined or appears to have been extirpated. Previous studies in apparently stable populations from central and southern United States revealed low genetic diversity within and between populations. In this study, we assess genetic diversity at the northern edge of N. lutea’s range where it is often imperiled. A total of 489 individuals in 25 populations collected in Upper Mississippi River regions in Minnesota and Wisconsin were amplified in 12 microsatellite loci. Ten microsatellite loci indicated significant deviation from Hardy-Weinberg principal and were utilized for further analysis. Generally, genetic diversity was low compared to the genetic studies from southern North America. Despite low levels of genetic differentiation (Fst range; 0.003–0.059), structure and UPGMA analysis indicated the possibility of two distinct clusters and slight admixture in some populations. Initial low genetic diversity in populations was likely caused by founder effect if few individuals were established at each site. Limited migration and clonal growth contribute to the continued low diversity. We provide recommendations and research suggestions for the conservation of this species.