Genetic diversity, origin and conservation of the sclerophyllous species of genus Quercus in the Balearic Islands

Abstract

The study of the distribution of evergreen Quercus species (Q. ilex L. -holm oak-, Q. coccifera L. -kermes oak- and Q. suber L. -cork oak-) from the Balearic Islands and the using of chloroplast DNA molecular markers have allow the discussion about the origin of their populations and their affinities with those from other surrounding regions. The singularity of some haplotipos has favoured the identification of the areas and populations of greater interest for the application of strategies of conservation of the forest resources. The Balearic Islands are a reservoir of genetic diversity, containing Tyrrhenian and Iberian elements. Priorities for conservation should be focused on the maintenance of the peculiar populations that are fragmented or that show a low effective population size.