AFLP and ISSR markers were used to determine the genetic variations in eight mangrove
and non-mangrove populations of Heritiera littoralis (Sterculiaceae), a threatened species
in China. Our results showed a moderate to high level of genetic variation in this species
(P ¼ 63.69%, HT ¼ 0.20 for AFLP; P ¼ 76.07%, HT ¼ 0.22 for ISSR), and a relatively high level
of genetic differentiation among populations (GST ¼ 0.24 for AFLP and 0.27 for ISSR). Life
history traits, long-distance dispersal of floating seeds, and local environments may play
important roles in shaping the genetic diversity and genetic structure of this species.
Investigation of the plant’s reproductive capacity showed that the natural seed production
of H. littoralis was low, as was the germination rate and the transformation rate from
juvenile to adult. H. littoralis is seriously threatened and is in urgent need of conservation
in China.