Introduction to Tree Genetics PDF

FOREST GENETICS AND TREE IMPROVEMENT: AN INTRODUCTION KEAN ROE F. MAZO Faculty, Forest Sciences Department Mindanao State University At Naawan GENETICS  branch of biology that deals with the principles of heredity and variation in all living things.  study of genes and inheritance GENETICS ...

FOREST GENETICS AND TREE IMPROVEMENT: AN INTRODUCTION KEAN ROE F. MAZO Faculty, Forest Sciences Department Mindanao State University At Naawan GENETICS  branch of biology that deals with the principles of heredity and variation in all living things.  study of genes and inheritance GENETICS  It seeks to understand:  molecular and physical bases of biological diversity (every individual is unique except for identical twins);  mechanisms resulting from these diversities; and  principles that govern their heredity from one generation to another (rice looks like rice from generation to generation). GENETICS “the foundation of forest tree breeding and improvement” FOREST GENETICS  study of heredity in forest trees  the sub-discipline of genetics concerned with genetic variation and inheritance in forest trees  provides the knowledge necessary to breed trees through traditional methods of selection and hybridization, and also through newer biotechnologies  study of genetic variation and inheritance in forest trees. FOREST GENETICS  It’s a crucial field of study as it provides the scientific basis for tree improvement and gene conservation programs. FOREST GENETICS – CONCEPTS, SCOPE, HISTORY AND IMPORTANCE  Genes are the basis for all genetic variation and biodiversity in the world, and genetics is the branch of biology that studies the nature, transmission and expression of genes.  Genetics deals with heritable variation among related organisms, and studies resemblances and differences among individuals related by descent. FOREST GENETICS – CONCEPTS, SCOPE, HISTORY AND IMPORTANCE  Forest Genetics is the subdiscipline of genetics dealing with forest tree species.  Forest Genetics concerns application of general genetic principles in management of forest resources  Specific examples of application are natural or artificial regeneration, seed production, seed transfer, gene conservation, tree improvement, and tree breeding.  In one sense forest trees are not model organisms for studying genetic principles because of their large size and long life spans.  studying of forest genetics is important precisely because of the unique biological nature of forest trees and also of the social and economic importance of forests in the world. TREE IMPROVEMENT the application of genetic principles to increase the value of tree crops the applied use of forest genetics concepts to enhance the quality of trees. It’s often synonymous with tree breeding, although the latter may specifically refer to activities like controlled pollination.  For example, in developing countries 80% of all wood harvested is used for fuelwood and forest provide a range of indigenous uses. However, in developed countries, 84% of harvested woods is used for industrial purposes (FAO, 1995) In all countries, forest are valued for their conservation and scenic values.  At one extreme, undisturbed natural forests are excellent for several biological and social values; however, they often produce low harvest yields and undesirable sources of commercial wood products for several reasons.  At the other extreme, intensively managed plantations grow rapidly, yet sustain lower levels of biodiversity.  Between the two extremes are a number of different types of forests each providing a somewhat different set of values.  No single type of forest can provide all possible benefits; therefore, all are needed.  Knowledge of forest genetics is valuable for understanding the sustainability, conservation and management of all types of forests on the continuum.  For example, deforestation is reducing the amount of forested land by nearly 1% annually in some countries (World Resources Institute, 1994), which is seriously eroding the genetic base of some tree species. FOREST GENETICISTS CAN HELP AMELIORATE THIS SITUATION IN TWO WAYS: 1. Gene conservation programs can preserve the genetic diversity of threatened species 2. Tree improvement programs can ensure that well adapted, and even genetically improved trees, are used to reforest cut-over lands. CONSTRAINTS IN THE STUDY OF FOREST GENETICS 1. Size 2. Life cycle 3. Limited study in the field 4. Permanency in plantation 5. No proper record keeping 6. Indirect evidence is used 7. Continuity of experimentation IMPORTANCE OF OF GENETICS AS SCIENCE 1. improvement of plants, animals, microorganisms, and humans through manipulation of genetic composition e.g., before 1960 rice yields –27 cavans/ha; after breeding works 1964-65: C4-63 − 250-300 cavans/ha, and IR8 − 400- 500 cavans/ha 2. medical applications diseases afflicted to the genes - diabetes (inability to produce insulin) insulin - responsible for the breakdown of sugar IMPORTANCE OF THE SCIENCE OF GENETICS 3. genetic counseling - general abnormalities in the family counseled not to produce children mental retardation - gene carried by mother (normal) produce normal daughter and son mentally retarded 4.Legal applications - establish paternity using blood type as one of the basis; crime solving through DNA finger printing, establish DNA profile 5. Genetic engineering - scientific discipline of altering or combining the gene of a living organisms KEY CONCEPTS  Forest Genetics: This is the study of heritable variation in forest trees. It focuses on understanding how genetic differences influence traits such as growth rate, disease resistance, and adaptability to environmental conditions. KEY CONCEPTS  Tree Improvement: This involves the application of forest genetics to improve the productivity and health of commercially important and sometimes non-commercial tree species. The goal is to produce trees with desirable traits such as faster growth, better wood quality, and increased resistance to diseases. KEY CONCEPTS  Tree Breeding: This is a specific activity within tree improvement that involves controlled pollination, selection, evaluation, and breeding of trees. The aim is to produce superior trees that exhibit the desired traits. KEY CONCEPTS  Genetic Improvement: This involves the use of various techniques to enhance the genetic quality of trees. These techniques include selection of superior trees (based on traits such as growth rate and disease resistance), controlled pollination, progeny testing, and genetic engineering. KEY CONCEPTS  Deployment of Genetically Improved Material: Once genetically improved trees are developed, they need to be deployed effectively. This involves considerations such as seed zones, genotype- environment interactions, and field testing for the establishment of plantations or for restoration (resistance breeding). KEY CONCEPTS The ultimate goal of forest genetics and tree improvement is to enhance the productivity and sustainability of forests. However, it’s important to note that these improvements are realized over several decades, requiring long-term commitment. END OF PRESENTATION Kean Roe F. Mazo Kean Roe Felipe Mazo [email protected]