Genetic data improve the assessment of the conservation status based only on herbarium records of a Neotropical tree.

ABSTRACT

Although there is a consensus among conservation biologists about the importance of genetic information, the assessment of extinction risk and conservation decision-making generally do not explicitly consider this type of data. Genetic data can be even more important in species where little other information is available. In this study, we investigated a poorly known legume tree, Dimorphandra exaltata, from the Brazilian Atlantic Forest, a hotspot for conservation. We coupled species distribution models and geospatial assessment based on herbarium records with population genetic analyses to evaluate its genetic status and extinction risk, and to suggest conservation measures. Dimorphandra exaltata shows low genetic diversity, inbreeding, and genetic evidence of decrease in population size, indicating that the species is genetically depleted. Geospatial assessment classified the species as Endangered. Species distribution models projected a decrease in range size in the near future (2050). The genetic status of the species suggests low adaptive potential, which compromises its chances of survival in the face of ongoing climatic change. Altogether, our coupled analyses show that the species is even more threatened than indicated by geospatial analyses alone. Thus, conservation measures that take into account genetic data and the impacts of climate change in the species should be implemented.