Morphological and genetic diversity of Protium copal L. in Guatemala

Bc. Tomáš Kocian

Diplomová práce

Abstract:

P. copal (Burseraceae) is a culturally and economically important tree species native to the wet tropical forests of Alta Verapaz, Guatemala. Its resin (copal) is still widely used by Q’eqchi’ Maya communities for incense and traditional medicine which was confirmed with direct interviews with farmers. This study aimed to assess the genetic variability and morphological differentiation of P. copal across multiple populations in Alta Verapaz. A genetic analysis based on Start Codon Targeted (SCoT) markers was conducted on individuals from 4 populations (Lanquín, Semuc Champey, Sierra de Las Minas, Cahabon). The results revealed moderate within-population genetic diversity (ΦST = 0.062) and a weak but significant genetic structure among populations. A significant isolation-by-distance pattern was detected, indicating that geographically closer populations were more genetically similar than distant ones. Particularly the population from Lanquín, which was also the only one collected purely from cultivated agroforestry management systems, showed genetic differences from other populations suggesting difference between naturally occurring populations and cultivated ones. The populations showed no significant morphological differences. However, the morphological data collection and analysis occurred during a period when insufficient data was obtained, limiting the ability to conduct a reliable evaluation. The moderate genetic diversity within populations was considered a positive indicator of the species’ adaptive potential which was likely created due to ancient migration and diversification, but the observed genetic structure and isolation-by-distance pattern highlighted the importance of maintaining habitat connectivity to ensure ongoing gene flow, given P. copal’s significance to Q’eqchi’ communities. This research provided a valuable baseline for developing informed conservation strategies and sustainable management practices for P. copal in its native range.

Keywords

indigenous trees, medicinal plants, non-timber forest products

Jazyk práce: angličtina

Datum vytvoření / odevzdání či podání práce: 27. 4. 2025

Obhajoba závěrečné práce

• Obhajoba proběhla 2. 6. 2025
• Vedoucí: prof. Ing. Bohdan Lojka, Ph.D.
• Oponent: José Alejandro Ruiz Chután, externi

Česká zemědělská univerzita v Praze

Fakulta tropického zemědělství

Magisterský studijní program:
Tropical Forestry and Agroforestry