Neutral DNA markers fail to detect genetic divergence in an ecologically important trait

The development of strategies for in situ, ex situ conservation and reforestation of the monkey puzzle tree (Araucaria araucana), a vulnerable tree endemic to southern South America, has led to an interest in the level and distribution of the genetic diversity of the species. Neutral DNA markers (RAPDs) and quantitative genetic techniques were used to characterise genetic heterogeneity within and among populations from throughout the natural range of the species. Both the level and pattern of genetic variation estimated using the different techniques were essentially uncorrelated. An important discrepancy was found with the neutral markers failing to detect an important quantitative genetic divergence across the Andean Range relating to drought tolerance. This study clearly demonstrates the potential problems associated with making recommendations for conserving the genetic resource of threatened species based solely on neutral marker studies. Alternative approaches are discussed, including a stronger focus on ecologically important traits and the potential use of surrogate measures of genetic variability. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.