Frequency and spatial patterning of clonal reproduction in Louisiana iris hybrid populations

Frequency and spatial patterning of clonal reproduction were studied in Louisiana iris hybrid populations. Much clonality was seen, however. Clonal reproduction in hybrid populations might facilitate introgression through increase in the number of flowering ramets per genet and/or the survivorship of early generation hybrids. However, the clonal reproduction might also influence the mating system in such populations. Any potential increase in the selfing rate caused by cross-pollination among ramets of the same genet may increase the likelihood of homoploid hybrid speciation