Abstract

FERREIRA, Miguel  and  ERIKSSON, Gösta. A Programme for the Management of Forest Tree Genetic Resources in the Azores Islands. Silva Lus. [online]. 2006, vol.14, n.1, pp.59-73. ISSN 0870-6352.

Since few forest tree gene conservation activities have been carried out in the Azores islands with its unique flora, it is urgent to develop a strategy for the management of the Azorean forest tree genetic resources. Safeguarding the potential for adaptation was identified as the prime objective for gene conservation of tree species in the Azores. Three species were identified of potential interest for tree genetic improvement. Prunus lusitanica spp azorica was selected due to its rarity and is close to extinction. Piconia azorica and Juniperus brevifolia spp azorica were selected based on their high wood quality and the interest in these trees by the Azorean Forest Service. Combined gene conservation and breeding was suggested for these species. The breeding of all of these species 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 Figure 4). 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 spp azorica 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 programme, 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 competing tree species should be carried out to guarantee regeneration of the gene resource populations. Supportive research for the management program is urgently needed.

Keywords : Prunus lusitanica spp azorica; Piconia azorica; Juniperos brevifolia spp azorica.

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