Development of improved and comprehensive growth and yield models for genetically improved stands

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

9-7-2020

Department

College of Forest Resources and Environmental Science

Abstract

Key message: This synthesis of the literature on incorporation of genetic gain into growth and yield models reveals a fundamental challenge associated with the rapid progress in genetics and breeding and limited empirical data on improved stands. Model improvements depend on a better understanding of both the biological basis for gain and of interactions between genetic and non-genetic factors on gain. Context: Continued development of new genetic varieties of trees requires accurate stand growth and yield models to predict growth trajectories and genetic gain of the new varieties using early-age growth data. Aims: To identify how the effects of genetic variety on growth and yield models could be analyzed and genetic information could be incorporated into these models for accurate growth simulation and improved yield prediction of genetically improved stands. Results: Genetic variety may affect one or several of the asymptotic parameters, shape parameters, and rate parameters of growth and yield models, which can be assessed by testing the parameter differences of the models. After determination of the influence of genetic varieties on model parameters and considering the existing general stand growth equation, the genetic gain can be incorporated into growth and yield models by calculation of genetic gain multipliers, adjustment of the site index, and calibration of the new model parameters. Conclusion: Accurate and effective growth and yield models for genetically improved stands require a better understanding of the effects of genetics, environment, and silviculture measures on tree and stand growth.

Publisher's Statement

© 2020, INRAE and Springer-Verlag France SAS, part of Springer Nature. Publisher’s version of record: https://doi.org/10.1007/s13595-020-00995-5

Publication Title

Annals of Forest Science

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