Structure of genetic diversity in the populations of bornmüllerian fir (Abies nordmanniana subsp. bornmülleriana Mattf.)

Genetics diversity is the richness of the hereditary information in the gene pole of one species. High level of inter-species genetic diversity is an assurance for adaptation to changing environmental conditions, an indication for adaptation potential of the species and an important part of the ecosystem stability. Also genetic diversity is a raw material for tree improvement studies. As such, most of the researches about the genetic diversity are in high priority in forest trees improvement programs. But, very few studies have been conducted about Bornmüllerian fir. Besides, there is no comprehensive study to disclose the spatial distribution of Bornmüllerian fir and provide background information for future studies.The aim of this study is to determine the genetic diversity of Bornmüllerian fir with respect to the morphological characteristics. The research focuses on determining various characteristics of the fir such as seed, seedling and sapling characteristics between populations. In this sense construction of genetics diversity, basic morphological characteristics, geographical variations, the morphological differences between tree species in the optimal and extreme distribution area of Bornmüllerian fir was determined.Genetic variations between populations were determined with regards to seed and seedling characteristic by variance analysis conducted in SPSS statistic software. Significant relations were determined between characteristics by correlation analysis. Possibilities in variation determination using fewer variables by factor analysis were determined. Distances between populations were measured by Penrose analysis. Groups with regard to measured characteristics were formed by hierarchical cluster analysis.