Many studies have highlighted the complex and diverse basis for heterosis in inbred crops.
Despite the lack of a consensus model, it is vital that we turn our attention to understanding …

Species hybridization is key for the improvement of shrub willow (Salix spp.) bioenergy
crops because hybrids often display heterosis for yield. The development of high-yielding …

Polyploidy is common in the genus Salix. However, little is known about the origin,
parentage and genomic composition of polyploid species because of a lack of suitable …

Background Gene conversion has an important effect on duplicate genes produced by
polyploidization. Poplar (Populus trichocarpa) and willow (Salix brachista) are leading …

Successful use of woody species in reducing climatic and environmental risks of energy
shortage and spreading pollution requires deeper understanding of the physiological …

Salix alba− Salix fragilis complex includes closely related dioecious polyploid species,
which are obligate outcrossers. Natural populations of these willows and their hybrids are …

Introduction Numerous crops have transitioned to hybrid seed production to increase yields
and yield stability through heterosis. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying …

Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.) is a main herbaceous species projected for use as
feedstock in biofuel production. Understanding the nature of genetic variation for biomass …

Premise The evolution of sex chromosomes is driven by sexual dimorphism, yet it can be
challenging to document sexually dimorphic traits in dioecious plant species. At the genetic …

The short rotation biomass crop willow (Salix genera) has been of interest for bioenergy but
recently also for biofuel production. For a faster development of new varieties molecular …