Analysis of hybridization between tetraploid Lotus corniculatus and diploid Lotus stepposus (Fabaceae-Loteae): morphological and molecular aspects

Abstract

We analyzed variability of morphological characters and genetic polymorphism of inter-simple sequence repeat (ISSR) markers in nine natural populations of three Lotus species from Eastern Europe, aiming to provide insights into the nature of the species L. ucrainicus. Nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (nrITS) was used as an additional molecular marker for a small subset of accessions. Analysis of variance, and principal coordinate and principal component analyses were applied for morphological data study. Cluster analysis [unweighted pair-group method with arithmetic mean (UPGMA)], principal coordinate analysis, and analysis of population genetic structure were used for ISSR pattern study. Morphological and genetic (ISSR, nrITS) evidence suggested hybrid origin of L. × ucrainicus as a result of hybridization between tetraploid species L. corniculatus and diploid species L. stepposus. We conclude that L. × ucrainicus may represent a case of hybrid speciation in statu nascendi, occurring before our very eyes.