A review on Q_ST–F_ST comparisons of seed plants: Insights for conservation

Increased access to genome-wide data provides new opportunities for plant conservation. However, information on neutral genetic diversity in a small number of marker loci can still be valuable because genomic data are not available to most rare plant species. In the hope of bridging the gap between conservation science and practice, we outline how conservation practitioners can more efficiently employ population genetic information in plant conservation. We first review the current knowledge about neutral genetic variation (NGV) and adaptive genetic variation (AGV) in seed plants, regarding both within-population and among-population components. We then introduce the estimates of among-population genetic differentiation in quantitative traits (Q_ST) and neutral markers (F_ST) to plant biology and summarize conservation applications derived from Q_ST–F_ST comparisons, particularly on how to capture most AGV and NGV on both in-situ and ex-situ programs. Based on a review of published studies, we found that, on average, two and four populations would be needed for woody perennials (n = 18) to capture 99% of NGV and AGV, respectively, whereas four populations would be needed in case of herbaceous perennials (n = 14). On average, Q_ST is about 3.6, 1.5, and 1.1 times greater than F_ST in woody plants, annuals, and herbaceous perennials, respectively. Hence, conservation and management policies or suggestions based solely on inference on F_ST could be misleading, particularly in woody species. To maximize the preservation of the maximum levels of both AGV and NGV, we suggest using maximum Q_ST rather than average Q_ST. We recommend conservation managers and practitioners consider this when formulating further conservation and restoration plans for plant species, particularly woody species.