Population genetic structure and diversity of Dendrocalamus longispathus in its native range of North East India

Introduction Genetic diversity and population structure are critical for understanding species distribution, environmental adaptability, and responses to anthropogenic disturbances. Dendrocalamus longispathus , a commercially and ecologically important bamboo species in North East India, remains understudied in terms of its population genetics. This study aims to assess the genetic diversity and structure of this species across its natural range in Mizoram and Tripura. Methods Leaf samples were collected from 12 populations and analyzed using 13 polymorphic simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers. Genetic diversity parameters, including number of alleles, allelic richness, heterozygosity, and inbreeding coefficients, were estimated. Population structure was examined using Bayesian analysis, Neighbor-Joining method based genetic clustering, and principal coordinate analysis (PCoA). Results The analysis revealed moderate genetic diversity, with mean number of alleles (Na = 2.84), effective alleles (Ne = 1.87), and expected heterozygosity (He = 0.362). Observed heterozygosity (Ho = 0.234) was lower than expected, indicating inbreeding, supported by a positive inbreeding coefficient (F IS = 0.306). Populations from Mizoram exhibited higher allelic richness compared to those from Tripura. AMOVA showed that 70% of genetic variation occurred within populations and 30% among populations (F ST = 0.297), indicating very high levels of genetic differentiation with low gene flow (Nm = 0.86). Bayesian analysis identified three genetic clusters (K = 3), with most populations clearly structured except one admixed population. Overall, pattern of genetic clustering between population was largely aligned with geographic proximity. Discussion The findings indicate moderate genetic diversity, very high genetic differentiation, and robust genetic structure in D. longispathus populations, with evidence of limited gene flow and inbreeding. These results highlight the need for targeted conservation strategies and the use of genetically diverse populations for plantation and sustainable management programs.