Estimation of mating system parameters in two Italian natural populations of Fagus sylvatica

Mating system parameters were estimated in two Italian natural populations of European beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) using a mixed mating model and considering seven allozyme loci (Idh-A, Lap-A, Mdh-B, Pgd-A, Pgd-B, Pgd-C, Skd-A). High values of multilocus estimates of the outcrossing rate were found in both populations, ranging from 94 to 98%. Comparison of single- and multi-locus estimates of outcrossing rates seems to indicate the presence of consanguineous matings, probably because the populations are substructured. This hypothesis seems to be confirmed by the presence of a heterogeneity of the pollen allele frequencies across female parent trees and by the significant coefficient of the regression of pollen allele frequencies on ovule genotype. Variation in the fixation indices in different life-cycle phases was observed, indicating possible presence of selective processes between seed set and sexual maturity. Possible explanations of these results are presented.