Genetic diversity assessment of gal oak (Quercus infectoria) populations in north Zagros forests using ScoT molecular marker and morphological and biochemical characteristics

Identification of genetic diversity and sustainable management of genetic resources is essential for confronting against degrading pressures of local dwellers on genetic resources of oak-dominated Zagros forests. The goal of this study was to investigate genetic diversity among 150 individuals of Quercus infectoria representing ten populations from north-Zagros forests using start codon targeted (SCoT) polymorphism marker and leaf morphological and biochemical characteristics. High variability was revealed between populations according to both morphological and biochemical characteristics of leaves. Based on morphological and biochemical data the studied populations divided into three main clusters. Ten selected SCoT primers generated 136 bands, of which 135 bands (99%) were polymorphic. Genotypic analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) indicated that most of the genetic variability (76%) existed within populations but significant differences were also found between populations. Extensive gene flow via wind-mediated pollination in oaks might be important factor for explaining this situation. SCoT primers-based cluster analysis grouped the populations into distinct clusters without any clear relationship with their geographic origin. The information documented in this paper could be valuable for establishment of conservation strategies for genetic resources of gall oak of north-Zagros forests.