The expansion of sterile Arundo donax (Poaceae) in southeastern Australia is accompanied by genotypic variation

摘要: Abstract Reproductive modes and dispersal mechanisms shape the genotypic structure of populations which in turn influences a species’ capacity for successful invasion. Understanding limitations reproductive may assist with finding best approach to control expansion an invasive species. To understand founder history against spread Arundo donax, we examined variation, using Inter Simple Sequence Repeats (ISSR) markers, determined ploidy fertility 10 single (one patch) seven multiple (spatially distinct patches) stands scattered along three river systems southeastern Australia. No seed was detected any plant shriveled anthers did not produce pollen. Somatic chromosome counts identified uneven levels (2n = 7x = 84), be cause sterility A. donax. Of 58 plants sampled 38 genotypes, variation moderate high within each system (G/N = 0.485–1.000 Simpson's D = 0.881–1.000). Three genotypes were found more than one stand, suggesting that donax by vegetative propagules is rare event. Genetically all stands. Sections contained revealed stand unique genotype; this attributable founders, somatic mutations, and/or polyploidy. Our results indicate has had little effect on retarding heptaploid Australia, reproduction through fragments effective mechanism.