Population genetic structure in duckweed (Lemna minor, Lemnaceae)

Abstract

Allozyme variation in 11 Minnesota populations of Lemna minor L. was studied, using 11 enzyme systems, resolving 16 putative loci from 285 plants. Significant deviations from Hardy–Weinberg frequencies occurred in several populations that had excesses of heterozygotes at several loci. While genotypic diversity and evenness measures are similar to other vegetatively reproducing plants (D = 0.541, E = 0.607), very few multilocus genotypes per population were found (mean = 4.0). Substantial population structure was evident (FST = 0.407), apparently reflecting low levels of gene flow (Nm = 0.30) despite the capacity of this species for dispersal of plantlets. This low level of gene flow and apparent low frequency of sexual reproduction has produced substantial levels of genetic divergence among populations, despite an absence of morphological differentiation. Keywords: allozymes, genetic structure, hydrophily, Lemna, vegetative dispersal, vegetative reproduction.