Naslov
Genetic structure of a rare European conifer, Serbian spruce (Picea omorika (Panc.) Purk.)

Autori
Ballian, Dalibor ; Longauer, Roman ; Mikić, Todor ; Paule, L. ; Kajba, Davorin ; Gomory, Dušan

Izvornik
Plant Systematics and Evolution (0378-2697) 260 (2006), 1; 53-63

Vrsta, podvrsta i kategorija rada
Radovi u časopisima, članak, znanstveni

Ključne riječi
allozymes; genetic diversity; differentiation; genetic drift; endemic species; fragmentation

Sažetak
Genetic variation in 13 populations of a Balkan endemic, Serbian spruce (Picea omorika (Pancˇ .) Purk.), was investigated using 16 isozyme loci. Serbian spruce is characterized by low levels of genetic variation (average proportion of polymorphic loci was 20.9% and average expected heterozygosity was 0.067). In most populations, a significant surplus of heterozygotes was observed, indicating a strong selection against inbreds. In the largest populations, fixation indices were positive, probably due to within-population differentiation and the associated Wahlund effect. Despite a strong overall differentiation (FST=0.261), no geographical trends in the genetic variation could be identified. Genetic drift caused by small effective population sizes and a strong fragmentation is the most plausible explanation for such variation patterns. A Bayesian analysis of population structure revealed the existence of two clusters, which are supposed to be possible remnants of ancient differentiation within a large range of the predecessor of Serbian spruce, Picea omoricoides Weber. Ex situ conservation measures, namely establishing seed orchards from trees of mixed origin, are proposed as a necessary complement to in situ protection of natural stands.

Izvorni jezik
Engleski

Znanstvena područja
Šumarstvo

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