Mapping genetic diversity of Phyllanthus emblica: forest gene banks as a new approach for in situ conservation of genetic resources

Abstract

We have initiated efforts in identifying the 'hotspots' of genetic variation of a few important medicinal plant species in south India. In this paper, we present our work on Phyllanthus emblica, one of the most important medicinal plant species in the subcontinent. Genetic diversity of four populations of P. emblica from south India were studied using isozyme analysis. Based on our results, we propose strategies for the long-term in situ conservation of the genetic resources of P. emblica. We introduce the concept of 'Forest gene banks' as a viable alternative to the existing methods of in situ conservation of genetic resources. In these gene banks, genetic diversity from different sources can be maintained in situ and allowed to 'evolve' with the exchange of gene pools within and among populations in the natural habitats.