Spatial autocorrelation analysis was employed to assess the genetic structure in sugar maple (Acer saccharum). Nine allozymes found at three isozyme loci (Fle1, Fle2, Pgi2) were analysed within six natural, mature populations. Based on the Gabriel network, most autocorrelation coefficients (Moran's I) were not significant. In two populations, however, the geographic distribution of Fle2-107, Pgi2-100, and Pgi2-087 was positively autocorrelated. Non-random divergence of allozymes was also indicated in some populations by positive low order (short distance) and negative high order (long distance) Moran's I. On average, the spatial structure within the populations was weakly distinct.
Keywords: Spatial autocorrelation, Moran's I, Gabriel network, correlogram, allozymes, maple
