Abstract: A total of 30 individuals were collected from the local wild Silvetia siliquosa population were analyzed( for genetic diversity and genetic structure using the RAPD method (random amplified polymorphism DNA). Results show that a total of 112 polymorphic loci were detected with the aid of 21 polymorphic 10-based random primers, reaching 93.75 in percentage, and its Nei’s gene diversity was 0.351 5±0.135 2 and Shannon diversity index 0.504 6±0.112 6. Of the three subgroups sorted into the same order based on UPMGA analysis, genetic differentiation ranged from 0.134 9 to 0.218 9 and gene flow was 1.779 3. The result indicatesd that the wild S. siliquosa population in Rongcheng was quite high in genetic diversity and displayed obvious genetic differentiation, and the genetic resources of the population was not affected by genetic drift. In light of the status quo of the genetic resources of the local S. siliquosa population, it is essential to intensify in situ conservation of the existing population and restore size of the population, and avoid degradation of the resources through inbreeding when samples are collected for preservation through breeding.

Key words: Silvetia siliquosa, random amplified polymorphism DNA(RAPD), genetic diversity, conservation strategy