Elissa Ladd & Stacy Chiappinelli
Advisor: Carolos Ramirez-Sosa
SLU Festival of Science 2001 Oral Presentation
Population Genetics of Aristolochia slavadorensis (Aristolochiaceae);
An endemic plant of El Salvador, C.A.
Abstract:
Aristolochia salvadorensis (Aristolochiaceae), an endemic species
to southwestern El Salvador, is being studied to determine its population
genetics.
Plant samples were collected
in El Impossible National Park of El Salvador at three altitudes within
its range.
This plant was selected
because of its medicinal values to the local community for the treatment
of cholera-like symptoms.
We are
analyzing chloroplasmic DNA (cpDNA) that has been isolated from the plant
leaves.
SSCP results have shown
genetic differences between high and low elevations.
Currently,
additional cpDNA is being isolated and sequenced with the intention of
comparing sequences for further verification of genetic differences among
populations.