Genetic diversity and population structure of Robinia pseudoacacia from six improved variety bases in China as revealed by simple sequence repeat markers

Abstract Robinia pseudoacacia is an important afforestation tree introduced to China in 1878. In the present study, we examined genetic diversity among 687 strains representing four improved varieties and two secondary provenances, comprising 641 clones 46 seedlings. Ninety-one simple sequence repeats (SSRs) were selected through segregation analysis polymorphism characterization, all sampled individuals genotyped using well-characterized SSR markers. After excluding loci with non-neutral equilibrium, missing locus data null alleles, used 36 primer pairs assess of these germplasm resources, revealing vast differentiation samples, average 8.352 alleles per a mean Shannon?s index 1.302. At population level, partitioning variability was assessed molecular variance, which revealed 93% 7% variation within collection sites, respectively. Four clusters detected structure analysis, indicating degree six populations. Insights into R. provide theoretical basis for conservation, breeding sustainable development China.