استفاده از صفات مورفولوژيكي برگ براي تمايز توده هاي Populus nigra در استانهاي كرمانشاه و زنجان

Using morphological traits for identification of Populus nigra stands in Kermanshah and Zanjan provinces of Iran

In order to adopt strategies for conservation and development, it is necessary to estimate the amount and distribution of genetic diversity in existing populations of poplar. In this study, for estimating genetic diversity between and within 12 stands of Populus nigra established at Kermanshah and Zanjan provinces in Iran, morphological traits were measured. In order to assimilate environmental conditions, seedling were planted under randomized complete blocks design with 3 replications. In the middle of growing season, 23 morphological traits were measured and data were analyzed using analysis of variance, cluster and principal component analysis. Results showed significant differences between stands. Principal component analysis introduced traits with high weight in components. Finally, by using cluster analysis, stands were classified in 2 groups based on 2 different provinces. Results showed that in homogeneous conditions, morphological traits could reveal diversity and similarity in poplar stands.