Using cytogenetic analysis to identify the genetic diversity in Lilium hansonii (Liliaceae), an endemic species of Ulleung Island, Korea

In section Martagon of genus Lilium, L. hansonii is an endemic species of Ulleung island, Korea. Deep golden yellow flowers and two to four whorls of leaves distinguish L. hansonii from other Martagon species. This species is declining in population due to destruction of the wild habitat. Here, we report comprehensive cytogenetic research on 37 individuals of L. hansonii using fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). Results of the FISH analysis showed that the distribution of 5S ribosomal DNAs was identical among all individuals of L. hansonii, but numbers of loci of 45S rDNA varied from 13 to 17 and 11 45S rDNA patterns were detected. Based on population level, 45S rDNA loci 13 and 17 were only detected in Seonginbong and Nariryeong, respectively. In addition, certain types of 14 and 15 45S rDNAs loci were found only in Seonginbong and Nariryeong, respectively. In contrast to 45S rDNA, a pair of 5S rDNAs on chromosome 3 was detected in all individuals consistently. The results revealed high genetic diversity in L. hansonii and will help establish a conservation strategy for this species.