Tree Improvement Programs for European Oaks/ Goals and Strategies : Genetics of Oaks. IUFRO Proceedings

1993

S. 368-383

zahlr. Lit. Ang.

Unselbständiges Werk

200041683

Most work concerned with the improvement of European oaks is concentrated on Quercus robur and Quercus petraea. Improvement is constrained by limited knowledge of the extent and pattern of genetic variation, the long period to reproductive maturity, levels of seed production relative to demand and difficulties in vegetative multiplication. The goals of improvement activities have focused on straightness, vigor and desirable branching; on wood anatomy, shrinkage, density and color, and susceptibility to problems such as frost cracks, shakes and defoliation. Three aspects of breeding are currently receiving attention: 1) in vitro methods for regeneration, flower induction and genetic manipulation; 2) technologies for clonal multiplication, and 3) elements of classical breeding programs. Recent conceptual and technological advances and greatly increased research activity have raised expectations of genetic progress, which will need to be accompanied by developments in associated topics such as silviculture, pathology and wood science.