American Ginseng: Genetics Unraveling Clues to Protection Needs

[Staff]

American Ginseng: Genetics Unraveling Clues to Protection Needs
Unzipping Wildlife Genes: Genetics Revolutionize Conservation Research
Released: 3/9/2010 12:25:18 PM

USGS Release: Unzipping Wildlife Genes: Genetics Revolutionize Conservation Research (3/9/2010 12:25:18 PM)
American Ginseng: Genetics Unraveling Clues to Protection Needs:

American ginseng is a native North American herb harvested for the medicinal qualities of its root, particularly for export to Asian markets. Ginseng export provides a supplementary income for people in the Appalachian Mountains, but recent increases in the market value of American ginseng roots have intensified legal and illegal harvesting. Concerns of possible over-harvest led to the listing of ginseng by Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora. Consequently, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service must determine whether the export of American ginseng will be detrimental to the survival of the species, and whether wild-harvest is sustainable. USGS scientists and their colleagues developed models that predict the distribution of habitats suitable for American ginseng and sampled ginseng populations in 14 states to assess population status, habitat characteristics, and genetic variation among sites. This information will help FWS determine the status and protection needs of this species.