Abstract
Morphological distinctions between sugar maples and black maples are not consistently evident, and molecular assessment of genetic diversity is lacking for these taxa. We examined restriction-site polymorphisms in the ndhA intron of the chloroplast DNA (cpDNA) in populations of sugar maples and black maples representing their zones of allopatry and sympatry in eastern North America. Restriction-site analysis of the ndhA intron after digestion with HinfI and Sau3AI yielded no polymorphisms. Restriction digestion of the ndhA intron with TaqI revealed two cpDNA haplotypes that were neither geographically localized nor taxon specific. Although testing additional accessions of sugar maples and black maples for cpDNA variation will further elucidate patterns of genetic variation, our initial results suggest that the taxa are either exchanging genes or share an ancestral cpDNA polymorphism.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
