The mode of inheritance of isozyme genes was studied in the basket wil
low (Salix viminalis L.), a European willow species important for biom
ass production. Eight enzyme systems representing 11 polymorphic isozy
me loci (Aat-2, Acp, Gpi-2 Idh-1, -2, -3, Mdh-1, -3, Pgd-4, Pgm, and S
kd) were examined in three full-sib families by means of starch-gel el
ectrophoresis. Mendelian segregation patterns were observed for all 11
loci. Tests of joint segregation indicated the presence of four weakl
y linked groups (Acp-Mdh-1, Mdh-3-Skd, Idh-2-Idh-3, and Idh-1-Gpi-2).
These results provide a basis for further research in willows, a taxon
omic group where information on genetics is scarce.