Assessment of genetic variation of natural populations of wild cherry (Prunus avium L.)via SSR markers

Wild cherry (Prunus avium L, syn. Cerasus L. Moench.) is a widely spread forest tree that has ecological and economical importance. However, the genetic diversity of this species threatened for many reasons. Therefore, breeding conservation program should be established in order to minimise loss diversity. In study, we aimed understand structure 440 individual wild cherries sampled from 22 different populations Turkey using 10 SSR molecular markers. With variance analysis, found within population approximately 88.5% among 9.8%. Thus, high whereas it moderate between tested (FST values 0.02-0.16). Phylogeny, principal component, STRUCTURE analysis showed are divided according their geographical locations. Moreover, Veliköy Kemerköprü located at higher altitudes, Macara which closest sample Europe, Tota Mediterranean Region; were genetically others. Hence, suggest in-situ Veliköy, Kemerköprü, Macara, populations. Our results will contribute ex-situ programmes conserve resources