Leaf morphometric variation in Quercus affinis and Q. laurina (Fagaceae), two hybridizing Mexican red oaks

摘要: Leaf variation was examined in two hybridizing Mexican red oaks, Quercus affinis and Q. laurina . Data of nine traits were obtained for ten randomly chosen leaves each 512 individuals from 16 populations sampled along a geographical gradient, including the distribution area both species putative secondary contact hybridization. A cluster analysis recognized main groups populations, which congruent with taxonomic assignment predominant morphological type within thus labelled ‘ like’ -like’ population groups. nested variance revealed that largest proportion total contained as among-tree (28‐54%, depending on trait), intra-individual (17‐56%). However, differences between (3‐27%) among (5‐21%) also significant traits. distinct pattern change across observed trait. Variation particularly pronounced gradient petiole length leaf-margin teeth number, possibly implying selection these Results suggest phenotypic plasticity, gene flow, hybridization natural have shaped foliar this oak complex. © 2005 The Linnean Society London, Botanical Journal , 2005, 147 427‐435.