Effects of biotic stress on seed quality and antioxidant content in Norway spruce trees from approved seed stands in Slovenia

Horn

2005

1 Abb., 7 Tab., 12 Lit. Ang.

Artikel aus einer ZeitschriftUnselbständiges Werk

5943

200138874

2003 was a seed year for Norway spruce. At the same time Norway spruce was heavily attacked by bark beetles. Because the nutritive tissue in conifers is derived entirely from the female parent the effect of biotic stress could influence the seed quality. Presence of biotic stress was detected through the visual signs caused by infestation with bark beetles and fungi and confirmed with higher antioxidant content in needles of non-vital trees. Seed quality of vital and non-vital subpopulations for three populations in Slovenia (Idrija, Pohorje, Bohor) was analysed. Attempt to find genetic differences between vital and non-vital trees was done. Statistically significant differences were observed in Idrija population for number of germinating seeds per cone, weight of 1000 seeds and weight of seeds per cone. No solid evidence against the use of seed derived from sanitary fellings due to biotic damages for production of forest reproductive material in the studied populations was found.