Epsilon Archive for Student Projects

Abstract

Since no forest tree gene conservation activities were carried in the Azores
islands with its unique flora, it is urgent to develop a strategy for management of the
Azorean forest tree genetic resources. To safeguard the potential for adaptation was
identified as the prime objective for gene conservation of tree species in Azores. Three
species were identified as of potential interest for tree improvement. Prunus lusitanica
was selected since it is rarely occurring and close to extinction. Piconia azorica and
Juniperus brevifolia were selected based on their good wood quality and the interest in
these trees by the Azorean Forest Service. Combined gene conservation and breeding
was suggested for them. The breeding of all of them will follow the Multiple Population
Breeding System concept. Open-pollinated seed will be collected for establishment of
seedling seed orchards for each ecogeographic zone (cf Fig. 5). Culling of trees with
undesired characteristics will be carried out before seed collection. Seeds will be used
for establishment of new progeny plantations. For Prunus lusitanica only 1-2 seedling
seed orchards are suggested. For the two other species several seedling seed orchards
are suggested. For tree species not included in the breeding, in situ subpopulations are
recommended. They should cover the entire range of distribution of these tree species.
Whenever two or more species coexist, combined gene resource populations could be
used to reduce the cost for conservation. Promotion of flowering by cutting of
competing tree species should be carried out to guarantee regeneration of the gene
resource populations. Supportive research for the management program is urgently
needed.