Genetic diversity and pedigree for Sophora toromiro (Leguminosae): a tree extinct in the wild

Sophora toromiro was endemic to the Pacific island of Papa Nui (Easter Isla nd) and is extinct in the wild. The species has survived in private and bot anic gardens. The species is the subject of an international study to suppo rt its conservation ex situ and eventual reintroduction. As a contribution to this study the genetic diversity of the surviving stocks and herbarium s amples has been assessed by means of random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD ) and inter-simple sequence repeat (inter-SSR) analysis. The analysis indic ated low levels of genetic diversity suggesting a very small number of foun ders. In addition, misidentified trees were identified allowing their remov al from the conservation project.