This genetic structure is considered to be due to the combined effects of slow biochemical evolution, genetic drift, inbreeding and limited gene flow between populations. Based on these findings, strategies are proposed for the genetic conservation and management of the species.

ISSR data suggest that the C. balansae complex has evolved into five genetically distinct units. These might be derived from a relatively widespread common ancestor through multiple vicariant events including geographical isolation resulting from the collision of the Indian plate with the Eurasian plate and from Pleistocene glaciations. In conservation, attention should be paid to each genetic unit.

Inter-simple sequence repeat (ISSR) markers were used to examine the level and distribution of genetic diversity in two cycad species: Cycas parvula S.L.Yang and C. balansae Warburg. The former is found in only two adjacent populations and the latter in a relatively wider distribution. Although genetic diversity in C. balansae (H e = 0.1301) is higher than that in C. parvula (H e = 0.0538), both are still low in comparison with the mean value (H e = 0.169) in gymnosperms. This confirms the general opinion that cycads are genetic relics. The genetic differentiation in both species, however, presents a striking contrast: G st is 0.0978 in C. parvula, but 0.4003 in C. balansae, which may be ascribed to the difference in distances between their populations.