XVI International Botanical Congess

Few studies of genetic variation have focused on species which reproduce through showy chasmogamous flowers and self-pollinated cleistogamous flowers. Using two different techniques, we measured genetic variation in five populations of Viola pubescens, a yellow violet that produces both floral types. Results from nine isozyme loci show that although there is considerable genetic variation, population structuring is indicated by unique alleles and low gene flow detected among populations. Genetic variation was also measured in the same samples using ISSR (Inter-Simple Sequence Repeats) markers, thus permitting a comparison of isozyme and ISSR methods. In general, more variability was detected with ISSR markers. Overall, the data are consistent with previous indications of selfing in the species.