Genetic diversity and population structure of boreal white spruce (Picea glauca) in pristine conifer-dominated and mixedwood forest stands

White spruce (Picea glauca (Moench) Voss) is a characteristic primary species of the Canadian boreal forest region, where it occurs in conifer-dominated and mixedwood forest types. Genetic diversity and population structure of white spruce may differ between the conifer-dominated and mixedwood forest types owing to the inherent differences in stand structure and dynamics. The objective of our study was to determine genetic diversity and population structure of pristine white spruce stands as they occur in conifer-dominated and mixedwood forest types at the EMEND (Ecosystem Management Emulating Natural Disturbance) study sites in northern Alberta. Nuclear microsatellite DNA markers were used to examine genetic diversity and population structure of 16 pristine natural old-growth (≥100 years) white spruce stands (subpopulations) of fire origin; 8 from conifer-dominated and 8 from neighboring mixedwood forest types. High levels of genetic diversity were observed, as expected. The genetic diversity and genetic...