| The project aims at estimating the amount of intra- and interspecific (hybridisation) gene flow in European oaks (Q. petraea and Q. robur mainly but also other Mediterranean white oaks) by using genetic fingerprints and applying parentage analysis. Natural gene flow due to pollen and seed dispersal, and artificial flow due to man made seed transfer will be investigated. The consequences of gene flow at the genetic but also ecological level will be addressed. Genomic regions affected by hybridisation will be identified and fitness related traits will be compared between hybrids and the parental species. These comparisons will be conducted on juvenile and adult material, in natural stands and in nurseries with controlled hybrid families. Finally, impacts of gene flow on management rules will be addressed by considering different real cases in strong cooperation with endusers associated to the project. |
