Population Genetic Assessment Model Reveals Conservation Priorities for Species Resources on the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau.

The Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau (QTP) has nurtured a rich diversity of species because of its unique geographical and environmental conditions. species (subfamily Schizopygopsinae) are primitive fishes that live in the special environment of the plateau, and their evolution and distribution are inseparable from the historical changes of the QTP. Recently, the resources of species have been decreasing due to habit deterioration and the intensification of human activities. Therefore, the scientific conservation of the genetic resources of species is urgently required. In this study, we established two models for the priority conservation assessment of germplasm resources of species on the basis of the genetic diversity and phylogenetic relationships of 674 individuals from eight species populations. The results show that the (GPO), (GE), and (GPR) populations are the most genetically diverse in terms of combined genetic diversity values and should be prioritized for conservation. In terms of genetic contribution, the GPO, GE, and GPR populations have a positive impact on maintaining the distinctiveness and diversity of the entire species population and should be prioritized for conservation. However, in terms of different evolutionary clades, the , , , and GE populations in clade A should be given priority for protection, the GE population in clade B should be given priority, and the GPR population in clade C should be given priority. In conclusion, the two models and assessment of conservation priorities will provide a scientific basis for the conservation of species.