Reappraisal of the Genetic Diversity Patterns in Puya raimondii—The Queen of the Andes: Insights from Molecular Marker Analysis Reveal an Inbreeding Reproductive Strategy

Puya raimondii, known as the 'Queen of the Andes,' exhibits alarmingly low genetic diversity and high levels of inbreeding, suggesting it is a genetically fragile and endangered species. Molecular marker analysis revealed a fixation index of 0.740 and minimal gene flow (0.02–0.03), with most genetic variation occurring between populations rather than within them. Researchers hypothesize that this narrow genetic base stems from an inbreeding reproductive strategy, intense environmental selective pressures—such as extreme temperature fluctuations and prolonged dry periods—and a lengthy life cycle that limits recombination. These factors collectively point to P. raimondii's vulnerability, with implications for its conservation in Huascarán National Park, Peru.

Draga, S., Sgorbati, S., & Barcaccia, G. (2025). Reappraisal of the Genetic Diversity Patterns in Puya raimondii—The Queen of the Andes: Insights from Molecular Marker Analysis Reveal an Inbreeding Reproductive Strategy. Plants, 14(3), 321. https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14030321