Multiple introductions boosted genetic diversity in the invasive range of black cherry (Prunus serotina; Rosaceae).

ABSTRACT:

Background and aims

Black cherry (Prunus serotina) is a North American tree that is rapidly invading European forests. This species was introduced first as an ornamental plant, then it was massively planted by foresters in many countries, but its origins and the process of invasion remain poorly documented. Based on a genetic survey of both native and invasive ranges, the invasion history of black cherry was investigated by identifying putative source populations and then assessing the importance of multiple introductions on the maintenance of gene diversity.

Methods

Genetic variability and structure of 23 populations from the invasive range and 22 populations from the native range were analysed using eight nuclear microsatellite loci and five chloroplast DNA regions.

Key

SUBMITTER: Pairon M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2876008 | biostudies-literature | 2010 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature