GROWTH TRAITS OF QUERCUS MACRANTHERA SUBSP SYSPIRENSIS POPULATIONS IN TURKEY AND THEIR ASSOCIATIONS WITH ENVIRONMENTAL VARIABLES

Abstract

Differences in growth traits among twelve populations across the Quercus macranthera subsp. syspirensis (ispir oak) distribution range in Turkey were investigated in a common garden seedling trial. The study revealed considerable variation in growth traits across the studied ispir oak populations. The highest values of growth traits were determined in populations of the eastern part of Turkey. Shoot height showed highly significant correlations with environmental variables of populations. The high genetic differentiation at phenotypic traits (Q(ST)) in the seedling common garden experiment suggested an important role of these traits in local adaptation. In this regard, it would be beneficial to use local provenance planting stock for woodland production, habitat conservation and restoration.