Heterosis may result in selection favouring the products of long-distance pollen dispersal in Eucalyptus.

ABSTRACT: Using native trees from near the northern and southern extremities of the relatively continuous eastern distribution of Eucalyptus globulus in Tasmania, we compared the progenies derived from natural open-pollination (OP) with those generated from within-region and long-distance outcrossing. Controlled outcrossing amongst eight parents - with four parents from each of the northern and southern regions - was undertaken using a diallel mating scheme. The progeny were planted in two field trials located within the species native range in southern Tasmania, and their survival and diameter growth were monitored over a 13-year-period. The survival and growth performances of all controlled cross types exceeded those of the OP progenies, consistent with inbreeding depression due to a combination o

SUBMITTER: Costa E Silva J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3994164 | biostudies-literature | 2014

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature