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

Publication date: 26/10/2020
Extent: 22 pages

Contributions by: Reiner Finkeldey, Kassel University, Germany; and Markus Müller, Carina Carneiro de Melo Moura and Oliver Gailing, University of Göttingen, Germany

Chapter synopsis: 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.

DOI: 10.19103/AS.2020.0074.32