Genetic and chemical diversity among Salvia multicaulis populations employing AFLP markers and the essential oil profile

Salvia multicaulis is a widespread medicinal plant growing in north, northwest, and center of Iran. In this study, the aerial parts of 29 specimens belonging to five geographical populations were collected and dried at full flowering stage. AFLP molecular markers were applied for genetic diversity analysis. Essential oil was extracted by hydro-distillation and its chemical compositions were analyzed by GC/MS. AFLP results led to the recognition of two different genotypes. The results demonstrated high molecular affinity among Azerbaijan and Kurdistan populations. However, Tehran showed much more correlations with Isfahan and Kohgiluyeh-o-Boyerahmad populations. The AMOVA test results, demonstrated high within population genetic variability. STRUCTURE analysis revealed some degree of population genetic fragmentation that was principally due to genetic difference occurred between Azerbaijan and the rest of the studied populations. Overall, 40 constituents were determined among which, a-pinene (11.2–19.9%) and 1,8-cineole (10.2–20.4%) were distinguished as two major compounds. Tehran showed closer affinity to Isfahan and Kohgiluyeh-o-Boyerahmad. The results of molecular studies were in accordance with those obtained by the chemical compositions. Therefore, ecological factors and geographical distance as well as genetics play an important role in the species evolution and distribution in different parts of the country.