Phylogenetic Analysis of Dipterocarps Using Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA Markers

The phylogenetic relationships among 12 species belonging to three different genera ( Shorea, Hopea and Anisoptera ) of Dipterocarpaceae were studied using random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers. A modified CTAB DNA extraction protocol was used to obtain tannin- and polysaccharide-free genomic DNA from mature leaves. Cluster analysis of data from six random primers placed the 12 species in three groups corresponding to their respective genera. Four distinct nodes of Shorea spp. and two of Hopea spp. could be identified. Anisoptera megistocarpa served as an outgroup, and was unique when compared to the other genera examined. RAPD profiles of five individuals of H. odorata with six random primers were identical, suggesting that there is little intraspecific variation in this species. The RAPD technique can thus be successfully applied for the study of phylogenetic relationships of this important group of tropical timber trees.