Evaluation of genetic diversity of Portuguese Pinus sylvestris L. populations based on molecular data and inferences about the future use of this germplasm

Pinus sylvestris (Scots pine) is one of the most abundant tree species on the globe. The Holocene post-glacial history of P. sylvestris resulted in many possible refuges and colonization routes throughout Europe, which strongly inuenced its genetic diversity and local adaptation. Under the scenario of global climatic changes that are negatively affecting the distribution of Scots pine, there is urgency of evaluation of the genetic diversity, structure and genetic relationships of populations with high adaptability potential, such as the Portuguese ones.