Abstract

Panax quinquefolius L. (American ginseng) is an herbaceous perennial plant native to North America. It is a congener of about 16 species of Asian ginseng, and the roots of most species produce ginsenosides used in both western and traditional Chinese medicine practices. Because ginseng species are in high demand and command lofty prices due to their cultural and medical use, these plants are susceptible to poaching. Poaching is a harmful activity that can cause a reduction in genetic diversity over time. Many plants’ genetic diversity is positively correlated with population size; therefore, a decrease in the number of individuals due to poaching results in the reduction of genetic diversity. Decreasing genetic diversity can negatively impact a species’ survival and fitness, and cause an increase in the rate of extinction. This study aimed to examine changes in the genetic diversity of two small, poached populations of ginseng before and after poaching. DNA was extracted and amplified at microsatellite loci, then fragment sizes were quantified and compared for genetic diversity over time. Results indicated genetic diversity did not differ between populations or change after poaching. In addition, diversity was not related to plant age. This study shows that poaching did not immediately reduce genetic diversity, perhaps because of population interconnectedness. Results might be useful in conservation efforts to preserve the genetic and demographic integrity of wild American ginseng.

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