Phylogenetic Analysis of Dipterocarps Using Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA Markers

The phylogenetic relationships among 12 species belonging tothree different genera (Shorea, HopeaandAnisoptera) of Dipterocarpaceaewere studied using random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers.A modified CTAB DNA extraction protocol was used to obtain tannin-and polysaccharide-free genomic DNA from mature leaves. Clusteranalysis of data from six random primers placed the 12 speciesin three groups corresponding to their respective genera. Fourdistinct nodes ofShoreaspp. and two ofHopeaspp. could be identified.Anisopteramegistocarpaserved as an outgroup, and was unique when comparedto the other genera examined. RAPD profiles of five individualsofH. odoratawith six random primers were identical, suggestingthat there is little intraspecific variation in this species.The RAPD technique can thus be successfully applied for thestudy of phylogenetic relationships of this important groupof tropical timber trees.Copyright 1998 Annals of Botany Company Dipterocarpaceae,Anisopteraspp.,Hopeaspp.,Shoreaspp., RAPD markers, tropical timber trees.     

The relative importance of some yield components in East of Scotland strawberry plantations

Yield components were measured in 69 plantations of the strawberry cv. Cambridge Favourite located in eastern Scotland. Yield of fruit/ha was positively correlated with number of crowndha. Number of berries/truss (inflorescence), mean berry weight and weight of fruithuss were negatively correlated with number of emerged trusses/crown. Weight of fruit/truss was positively correlated with both number of berries/truss and mean berry weight. Since crown number accounted for more than 50% of the yield variance it is suggested that the potential yields of strawberry plantations can be predicted from crown counts made during the dormant period.