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Low genetic diversity in small peripheral populations of a rare European tree (Sorbus torminalis) dominated by clonal reproduction

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Abstract

Analysis of nuclear microsatellites in six small populations of Sorbus torminalis on its northern distribution limit was carried out to evaluate the dominating mode of reproduction as well as genetic diversity within and among populations. Within populations there was a low genetic diversity with heterozygote excess in five populations. Genetic differentiation was high among populations and the amount of clonally arisen recruits was 94–100%. This suggests that clonal growth, small population size and a possible self-incompability system maintain heterozygosity, although some genetic drift would also be expected. The results are discussed with respect to potential conservation strategies for S. torminalis in the study region.

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Acknowledgements

We would like to thank Barbara Gautschi (Ecogenics GmbH, Zurich) for doing the microsatellite analyses and for giving advice in the interpretation. The research was funded by a PhD grant from the Royal Veterinary and Agricultural University.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Ecology, University of Copenhagen, Rolighedsvej 21, Frederiksberg C, 1958, Denmark

    Kristine Kjørup Rasmussen & Johannes Kollmann

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  1. Kristine Kjørup Rasmussen
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  2. Johannes Kollmann
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Correspondence to Kristine Kjørup Rasmussen.

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Rasmussen, K.K., Kollmann, J. Low genetic diversity in small peripheral populations of a rare European tree (Sorbus torminalis) dominated by clonal reproduction. Conserv Genet 9, 1533–1539 (2008). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10592-007-9492-y

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