Using Genetic Analysis to Evaluate Hybridization as a Conservation Concern for the Threatened SpeciesQuercus hinckleyiC.H. Muller (Fagaceae)

Abstract

Premise of research. Hybridization among oaks is well documented and is of special concern in conservation efforts directed toward threatened or endangered Quercus, species such as Quercus hinckleyi.Methodology. This study uses DNA microsatellite analysis to characterize hybridization between the threatened oak Q. hinckleyi C.H. Muller and two putative hybridizing species, Quercus pungens Liebmann and Quercus vaseyana Buckley. The two potential hybridizers were sampled at Guadalupe Mountains National Park (GUMO), approximately 320 km from the current range of Q. hinckleyi. Quercus pungens and two possible hybrids located in near proximity to the relict populations of Q. hinckleyi were also sampled.Pivotal results. Genetic variability was high in all three species, with mean number of alleles per locus ranging from 12.625 to 17.875, mean observed heterozygosity from 0.734 to 0.807, and mean expected heterozygosity from 0.851 to 0.869. Quercus hinckleyi is genetically differentiated from the putative hybrid...