Quercus Genetics: Insights into the Past, Present, and Future of Oaks

Dear Colleagues,

The genus Quercus (Quercus, Fagaceae) comprises more than 400 species distributed throughout the northern hemisphere. While the highest oak diversity occurs in American and Asia, European species are also widespread. Oaks are ecological dominants of many temperate forests, and evergreen species are major components of Mediterranean and subtropical woodlands. They provide important ecosystem services and valuable timber. Oak species exhibit high genetic diversity, and this diversity has provided a wealth of information regarding oak ecology and evolution. Recent genetic and genomic studies of oaks have unraveled their evolutionary origins, history, and past radiations. Genetic approaches have also been applied to learn about more recent events, such as range expansions and contractions occurring at northern latitudes.
Interest in hybridization between oaks species dates back at least as far as Darwin, and genetic tools have provided new insight into rates and patterns of hybridization, underlying ecological factors, and evolutionary consequences of genetic introgression. Further, we can now ask what genes or genomic regions are responsible for maintaining species barriers in oaks in the face of gene flow.
Genetic studies have also demonstrated widespread, long-distance pollen movement in oaks. Despite such extensive gene flow, evidence for divergent selection and local adaption has also emerged. The genes and genetic architecture underlying adaptive traits such as drought-tolerance and phenology may help us to make predictions regarding oak response to abiotic stress. Finally, many species of oaks are threatened by habitat loss and climate change, and understanding the genetic diversity and structure of these declining species is key for successful protection and recovery. This Special Issue focuses on what recent genetic studies have revealed about adaptation in oaks, their susceptibility to climate and other environmental stresses, and implications for management of both widespread and restricted species. We welcome submission of research reports and review papers that address these topics.

Dr. Mary Ashley
Dr. Janet R. Backs
Guest Editors

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