| Abstrakt: |
Simple Summary: In Kazakhstan, tulips are not just beautiful flowers but also vital to the environment, with 35 species, 18 of which are protected. Recent research near Kazakhstan's borders uncovered new tulip varieties, highlighting the need for a species inventory. In this study, we identified eight tulip species using both physical traits and advanced DNA testing. By analyzing genetic markers, we discovered that certain DNA regions are particularly useful for identifying tulip species. However, when it comes to closely related tulips, combining data from multiple DNA markers is crucial for accurate classification. This study also unveiled possible natural hybrids, indicating complex interactions between different tulip species. This research sheds light on the diversity and evolutionary relationships among tulips, providing valuable insights for conservation efforts and understanding plant genetics. Further investigations into tulip populations are necessary to confirm these findings and better protect these precious flowers. In Kazakhstan, the genus Tulipa is represented by 35 species, 18 of which are listed in the Red Data Book of Kazakhstan and protected by the state. Recent studies of tulip specimens from regions bordering Kazakhstan emphasize the significance of species inventory and report the discovery of several hybrids. In this study, eight tulip species were identified based on morphological characteristics and using DNA barcoding methods. Molecular genetic markers, including nrDNA (ITS) and cpDNA markers (rbcL, matK), of the studied species were sequenced and analyzed using the Bayesian inference and maximum likelihood phylogenetic analysis methods. Our work demonstrates that DNA barcodes based on the ITS, rbcL, and matK marker regions have successful practical applicability, with ITS being the most informative at the intragenic level. However, for distinguishing closely related taxa, the most effective approach would be to use a combined dataset of sequences from multiple DNA markers. The results showed discrepancies in the placement of several taxa (T. kaufmanniana, T. patens), likely due to introgression and natural spontaneous hybridization. The molecular phylogenetic analysis suggests the existence of a previously undescribed hybrid between T. patens and T. alberti. Further detailed population studies are needed to validate this hypothesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
