Geographic Origins and Genetic Diversity of Air-Potato (<i>Dioscorea bulbifera</i>) in Florida

Abstract

Abstract In Florida, air-potato is an invasive weed with high management priority, which may soon be targeted using classical biological control. This yam was introduced during the early 20th century by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) from areas throughout its extensive range. Our objectives were to characterize the genetic diversity of the invasive population in Florida and to identify the source regions of introduction. Authorities have often asserted the African provenance of the species in Florida, but our analyses, conducted using chloroplast markers, indicate that Florida air-potato is more similar to specimens examined from China than to those from Africa. Low intraspecific genetic diversity in Florida indicates that the invasive population was the result of at least two introductions becoming established in Florida.