Genetic differences between autochthonous and breeding populations of common cypress (Cupressus sempervirens L.) in Greece

Individuals were selected for resistance against the imperfect fungus Seiridium cardinale Wag in six common cypress populations (Cupressus sempervirens L.) in Greece. A total of 109 resistant clones and 140 trees from their base populations were surveyed at several allozyme loci. The comparison yielded information on changes in genetic variation due to artificial selection. The genetic structure of the breeding populations was similar to their base populations. Nevertheless, the number of rare alleles among the resistant clones had decreased, showing a similar trend at most loci and for most comparisons. Possible implications for breeding strategies are discussed.