Genome Sequencing, Molecular Marker Development and Genetic Diversity Assessment of Economically Important Vulnerable Tree Species Saraca as oca (Roxb.) W.J de Wilde

Abstract Saraca asoca, is an understory tree along streams in evergreen to semi-evergreen forests up to 600 m. It is an important tree in cultural tradition and medicinally significant. It is native to India and Sri Lanka. Globally the species is found to occur in India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Bangladesh. It was introduced in Malaysia. Within India, it’s found in Western Ghat and Eastern Ghat. It is occasionally planted in gardens. Saraca asoca is known for its extensive pharmacological properties, particularly its bark is used in treating menorrhagia, dysfunctional uterine bleeding, hemorrhagic dysentery, and other gynecological issues, it holds a prominent place in Ayurvedic medicine. This study was undertaken to sequence the whole genome of Saraca asoca using the Illumina HiSeq2500 platform, and evaluating the genetic diversity among samples from Kolluru and other locations in southern India through Genotyping by Sequencing (GBS). Analysis of 49 samples established genetic diversity relationships using a distance matrix. Sequencing yielded 1.6 Gb, covering 76% of the estimated genome size. The genome includes 764 million bases of repetitive DNA elements. A survey of Simple Sequence Repeats (SSRs) identified 584,615 SSRs, with 236,123 sequences containing SSRs. Utilizing the KEGG database, biosynthesis pathways for catechin and epicatechin within the flavonoid synthesis pathway were identified. This comprehensive genomic analysis of Saraca asoca (Sita Ashoka) provides critical insights for conservation efforts aimed at preserving this vulnerable species, Saraca asoca (Roxb.) Willd. Competing Interest Statement The authors have declared no competing interest.