Evidence for massive clonal growth in the invasive weed Fallopia japonica (Japanese Knotweed)

Authors: HOLLINGSWORTH M.L.¹; BAILEY J.P.²

Source: Botanical Journal of the Linnean Society, Volume 133, Number 4, August 2000 , pp. 463-472(10)

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Abstract:

Clonal growth in introduced populations of Japanese Knotweed (Fallopia japonica) in Britain was assessed using RAPDs (Randomly Amplified Polymorphic DNA). A total of 150 British samples was analysed for genetic variation using ten arbitrary decamer primers, and compared with data from 16 samples of other introduced populations from Europe and the U.S.A. All samples produced an identical multi-primer RAPD profile. Accepting that RAPD profile identity need not equate to genet identity, based on the sensitivity of these markers for detecting genetic diversity in related taxa and on the absence of male fertile individuals of this species in Britain, we interpret this result as consistent with the presence of a single, exceptionally widespread clone. This clone must represent one of the world's largest vascular plants. Copyright 2000 The Linnean Society of London

Keywords: alien –; colonization –; genetic diversity –; genotypic diversity –; introduction –; Polygonum cuspidatum–; RAPDs.

Language: English

Document Type: Research article

Affiliations: 1: Royal Botanic Garden, 20A Inverleith Row, Edinburgh, EH3 5LR 2: Biology Department, University of Leicester, University Road, Leicester, LE1 7RH

Publication date: 2000-08-01