Genetic linkage was investigated in thirteen isoenzymic loci in Salix
exigua NUTT. progenies that conformed to a 2x2 balanced factorial mati
ng design. An additional putative sex determination locus system was a
lso included in the analysis. Joint segregation was tested in all of t
he 91 possible two-locus combinations across different families. Linka
ge investigations involved both contingency table chi(2) tests and lik
elihood ratio tests (LOD-scores). The recombination fraction (theta),
standard errors and confidence intervals were estimated with maximum l
ikelihood methods. One tightly linked group including loci Acp-2 and A
lp-1 and another possible group involving Aco-2, Cto-1 and Ppo-1 were
found. An overall positive interference was detected. There was no ind
ication for non-random associations between sexual phenotypes and elec
trophoretic loci. Results are discussed in light of the potential appl
ication of linkage associations in breeding.