Inheritance and linkage of isozyme loci in the basket Willow (Salix viminalis L.)

Abstract

The mode of inheritance of isozyme genes was studied in the basket willow (Salix viminalis L.), a European willow species important for biomass production. Eight enzyme systems representing 11 polymorphic isozyme loci (Aat-2, Acp, Gpi-2, Idh-1, -2, -3, Mdh-1, -3, Pgd-4, Pgm, and Skd) were examined in three full-sib families by means of starch-gel electrophoresis. Mendelian segregation patterns were observed for all 11 loci. Tests of joint segregation indicated the presence of four weakly linked groups (Acp-Mdh-1, Mdh-3-Skd, Idh-2-Idh-3, and Idh-1-Gpi-2). These results provide a basis for further research in willows, a taxonomic group where information on genetics is scarce.