Characterization of MatK and RuBisCO Genes within the Population of Chrysophyllum albidum (G. Don) in Akure Forest Reserve, Ondo State, Nigeria

Genetic diversity study of tree species is important because it gives species a better chance ofsurvival in the face of climate change. This study investigated the genetic diversity within thepopulation of Chrysophyllum albidum in Queen’s plot, Akure forest reserve, Ondo State,Nigeria using MatK and RuBisCO genes. Trees of Chrysophyllum albidum were identified, counted, their coordinates and diameters at breast height were recorded. Foliar samples from each tree were collected, cleaned and stored in a sealed nylon containing silica gel as dehydrating agent. Geno-mic DNA was extracted using Cetyltrimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB). Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) was performed in a volume of 25μl in a DNA thermal cycler. PCR products were evaluated using Brilliant Dye™ Terminator Cycle Sequencing Kit and sequence data were analyzed using BIOEDIT and MEGA X software. The number of Chrysophyllum albidum (32 trees/ha) found in Queen’s plot was two times more than what was recorded in the previous studies. Chrysophyllum albidum trees were found in all the diameter classes. This indicates that this species has good regeneration status. The phylogram, constructed using RuBisCO and MatK genes for the sampled Chrysophyllum albidum trees, revealed the intra-specific variation of this species in Queen’s plot. The information provided in this study could be used to breed Chrysophyllum albidum with superior characteristics. Therefore, serious conservation efforts should be implemented and sustained to avert any loss of the identified genetic diversity.