Understanding and exploiting genetics of tropical tree species for restoration of tropical forests

Description

The development of sound conservation and regeneration strategies depends on the exploitation of genetic variation of tropical trees. Patterns of genetic variation have been assessed in field trials and at molecular markers only for a few main plantation species such as eucalypts. Preliminary evidence points towards considerable genetic diversity and complex spatial structures for most tropical tree species. Examples are provided to illustrate the use of field trials and molecular tools in order to clarify genetic relationships within species-rich taxa such as dipterocarps and to identify superior genotypes for plantation establishment.

Table of contents

1 Introduction 2 Methods to measure genetic diversity: field trials and tree improvement 3 Methods to measure genetic diversity: molecular markers 4 DNA barcoding 5 Genetic studies to investigate reproductive systems 6 Case studies: figs, dipterocarps, teak and eucalypts 7 Summary and future trends 8 Where to look for further information 9 References