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Re: local genotype

I may have been the one who wrote in about the genotype/ecotype 
terminology. People often use the term "local ecotype" to refer to 
any group of organisms, cuttings, propagules, etc. collected from a 
proscribed geographical area for use in a restoration project in that 
same area. Technically, this is a sampling of the local gene pool, 
or collection of local genotypes, rather than an ecotype. 

An ecotype is a genetically distinct population occurring in 
extraordinary ecological circumstances. Examples in nature occur 
on rock outcrops of mineral composition which is very distinct from 
the general surroundings, such as serpentine barrens. Regional 
native plants on these outcrops have distinct, genetically based 
adaptations for survival in droughty, ultra-low magnesium, 
serpentine-derived soils. Another such situation may occur in 
plants such as Arnoglossum plantaginifolium (a.k.a. Cacalia 
tuberosa), which in Ozark Missouri is found in two very distinct 
settings, calcareous fens and dolomite glades. In the fens, it 
constantly has water at its roots, which is the same, cool 
temperature year-round. In the glades, reliable moisture is available 
in winter and spring, but the setting is quite droughty and hot 
through most of the growing season. Needless to say, the 
phenology is different in the two populations, and there is likely a 
genetic basis for this. In the modern world, ecotypes of plants have 
evolved on soils contaminated with heavy metals, such as near 
copper smelters. The case of certain grasses on heavy-metal 
contaiminated soils in Europe is particularly well documented in 
the evolution literature, and is a classic case presented in college 
courses. 

James C. Trager

On 29 Mar 01, at 13:49, ERIKAERNA@aol.com wrote:

> Hello,
> I recently sent out an email requesting research information on the
> local genotype issue (a couple of months ago).  We have updated our
> email account and I have lost my saved email file cabinet in the
> process!  I had several replies on regarding a research reference on
> the Lakeside Daisy and I am hoping that whoever sent me this info.
> would resend it.  Also, someone replied that he/she was happy to see
> the use of the term local genotype vs. ecotype.  Would you please get
> back to me as to your logic for preferring the term local genotype,
> also any information on this subject with regard to research  and
> differing opinions of the subject would  be much appreciated. Thank
> you.
> 

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