Geographical variation in random amplified polymorphic DNA and quantitative traits in Norway spruce

Abstract

Quantitative traits and random amplified polymorphic DNA variations were investigated on the whole natural range of Norway spruce (Picea abies (L.) Karst.). Results showed that the species can be separated into two main groups (northern and central Europe) using both types of characters. Such spatial and geographical fragmentation of species natural range rarely occurs in conifers and is consistent with prolonged geographical isolation within two refugial zones located in distinct environmental conditions (Moscow area and east of central European mountains). Within each of these two infraspecific groups, we revealed an apparent uncoupling between quantitative traits (related to growth, phenology, and wood quality) and DNA. However, the combination of both molecular and quantitative traits information provided new insights about geographical patterns of variation: a dominant latitudinal gradient was found in the Baltico-Nordic domain contrasting markedly with the main east–west migration expected from pollen data, while in central Europe, a noticeable longitudinal gradient was congruent with east–west migration. The concordance and discrepancies between quantitative traits and DNA are discussed in terms of historical events in P. abies.