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Epigenetic variation in clonal stands of aspen

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Abstract

Epigenetic mechanisms can affect ecologically important traits, even in the absence of genetic variation. Environmental factors can influence gene regulation through chemical modifications, such as DNA methylation, resulting in acclimation that can be transferred to subsequent cell generations both mitotically and meiotically. Clonal plants such as Populus tremuloides (aspen) show considerable promise as model species for the long-term in situ study of ecological epigenetics. The common replication of identical genotypes across heterogeneous environments permits within- and between-genotype comparisons while controlling for genetic makeup. With a long lifespan and limited natural selection resulting from sexual recombination, it is conceivable that epigenetic acclimation plays an important role in the long-term ecological success of aspen. This case study is the first in a series investigating the role of epigenetics in aspen ecology. We have established long-term permanent plots of aspen, identified (genotyped) clones and established the baseline epigenetic structure. Here we report the in situ epigenetic structure of two aspen stands. We find considerable epigenetic variation and significant differences within and among genotypes and sites, suggesting both genotype and environment influence the epigenotype.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Bowdoin College, 3600 College Station, Brunswick, Maine, 04011, USA

    Jehwoo Ahn & Vladimir Douhovnikoff

  2. University of Northern Colorado, 501 20th St., Greeley, CO, 80639, USA

    Scott B. Franklin

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  1. Jehwoo Ahn
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  2. Scott B. Franklin
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  3. Vladimir Douhovnikoff
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Correspondence to Vladimir Douhovnikoff.

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Ahn, J., Franklin, S.B. & Douhovnikoff, V. Epigenetic variation in clonal stands of aspen . Folia Geobot 52, 443–449 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12224-017-9308-x

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12224-017-9308-x

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