Factors determining fine-scale spatial genetic structure within coexisting populations of common beech (Fagus sylvatica L.), pedunculate oak (Quercus robur L.), and sessile oak (Q. petraea (Matt.) Liebl.)

Abstract

Abstract Key message Naturally regenerating populations of common beech, pedunculate, and sessile oaks develop strong spatial genetic structures at adult and seedling stages. Significant genetic relationship occurs between individuals growing up to 60 m apart. This indicates the minimum distance separating trees from which seeds used for reforestation should be harvested to avoid the adverse effects of excessive relatedness among offspring. Context Spatial genetic structure is an inherent characteristic of naturally regenerating plant populations and has practical implications in forests for the management of genetic resources. Aims We investigated the extent of spatial genetic structure in three broad-leaved forest tree species (common beech—Fagus sylvatica L.; pedunculate oak—Quercus robur L.; and sessile oak—Q. petraea (Matt.) Liebl.) coexisting in the same nature reserve, explored its variation among species and different life stages (adults/offspring), and tested its possible determinants. Methods We explored patterns of spatial distribution of individuals, and using microsatellites, we estimated parameters of spatial genetic structure based on kinship relationships, considering possible sources of variation. Results In adults, the strongest spatial genetic structure was found for Q. petraea (Sp = 0.0187), followed by F. sylvatica (Sp = 0.0133), and the weakest in Q. robur (Sp = 0.0080). It was uniform across different age classes in pedunculate oak but decreased with age in sessile oak. No apparent relationship between age and spatial genetic structure was found in beech. Offspring exhibited significant spatial genetic structure (ranging from 0.0122 in beech to 0.0188 in sessile oak). The cohorts of seedlings having both parents present within the study site had stronger spatial genetic structures than cohorts of seedlings with only one local parent. Conclusion Spatial genetic structure is strong in naturally regenerating populations of heavy-seeded forest trees. Pollen immigration from outside of a local forest stand can significantly decrease the extent of spatial genetic structure in offspring generations.