Studies in Festuca 7. Chromosome atlas (Part 2) An appraisal of chromosome race distribution and ecology, including F. pratensis var. apennina (De Not.) Hack, -tetraploid

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Abstract
The pattern of evolutionary adaptation and habitat colonization is very complex, even in common agricultural species such as diploid meadow fescue and hexaploid tall fescue. Diploid meadow fescue has a very wide geographical distribution, including regions of considerable cold stress at high altitudes and in high latitudes. The tetraploid variety apennina in apparently confined to the mountainous areas of Central and, most probably, Easter Europe. The tetraploid probably evolved in this region, which is the recognized center of diversity of temperate grass species (Hartley and Williams 1956, Borrill 1972). It is impossible to know whether vicissitudes of plant migration, or lack of adaptation, are the reasons for the absence of var. apennina from the flora of E Turkey. F. arundinacea (hexaploid) is infrequent or absent where winters are very severe. In drier climates, this grass is usually associated with wetter and infrequently defoliated habitats. Diploid F. pratensis tolerates colder winters, and can colonize summer dry habitats in certain areas. The ecological adaptation of tetraploid F. pratensis var. apennina may include some preference for N-rich habitats. The ecogeographic pattern implies considerable genetic resources available for Plant Introduction programs, for example, in winter hardiness, drought resistance and seasonal growth.

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