Environmental effects on fine-scale spatial genetic structure in four Alpine keystone forest tree species.

摘要: Genetic responses to environmental changes take place at different spatial scales. While the effect of environment on distribution species' genetic diversity large geographical scales has been focus several recent studies, its potential effects structure local are understudied. Environmental fine-scale (FSGS) were investigated in four Alpine conifer species (five eight populations per species) from eastern Italian Alps. Significant FSGS was found for 11 25 populations. Interestingly, we no significant differences across but great variation among within species, highlighting importance factors. Interannual variability spring temperature had a small Larix decidua, probably related species-specific life history traits. For Abies alba, Picea abies and Pinus cembra, linear models identified precipitation as potentially relevant climate factor associated with populations; however, low explanatory power strongly influenced by P. cembra outlier population very dry site. Overall, direction is according expectations, drier more variable environments increasing FSGS. Underlying mechanisms may include climate-related variance reproductive success and/or selection specific families. This study provides new insights conifers face changes, suggesting that climates, through altering FSGS, also have impacts plant microevolution.