Study of Intraspecific Diversity of Artemisia incana (L.) Druce in East Azerbaijan

Regarding economic, medicinal, food and decorative importance of Artemisia genus, this study was carried out to determination of intraspecific diversity in the Artemisia incana populations collected from East Azerbaijan. To study of intraspecific diversity in A. incana in East-Azerbaijan D.S.S. method was used. Six special habitats of this population were recognized. Seeds of populations as well asand floristic-ecologic data were collected from each special habitat. Seed storage proteins were subjected for electrophoresis studies. In survey of all special habitats, 54 species were distinguished as associated species. Analysis of floristic data (Floristic compositions of each special habitat as floristic marker) led to identification of 4 separate groups that was indicated the existence of intraspecific diversity in this species. Analysis of ecologic data was also confirmed the groupment. The analysis of seed storage protein electrophoresis banding pattern showed three quite obvious groups. In the survey of electrophoresis pattern, existence of differences regarding number and density of the protein bands indicating existence of intraspecific diversity in the populations of A. incana. Therefore in this species, the grouping that introduced with floristic marker, confirmed also with ecological and electrophoresis markers. This means that floristic grouping can only be used as a cost-effective and efficient method for studying of intraspecific diversity.