The genetic diversity and population structure of Anemone altaica, an important medicinal herb used in traditional Chinese medicine, were estimated using ISSR markers within eight populations in Qinling Mountains, Northwestern China. The results showed that A. altaica has a relatively high genetic diversity (PPB = 89.9%, H_e = 0.293) at species level, and within populations (PPB = 61.7%, H_e = 0.215). Based on analyses of G_ST, AMOVA and gene flow a significant genetic differentiation was revealed. Influences of human harvesting activities on genetic diversity and population structures of A. altaica were determined by comparing their difference between over harvesting populations and low harvesting populations. At last, operative management policies for sustainable use of this species is suggested in this study.

Keywords

• Anemone altaica;
• Harvesting influences;
• Genetic diversity;
• Genetic structure