OverviewAn important step in using either wild-stand or genetically selected trees in reforestation is matching species and seed sources to their most fitting planting sites. As part of this step, we need to know how various seed sources are adapted to a range of environmental conditions. An increased risk of maladaptation (poor survival, growth, or reproduction) might come from planting fast-growing non-local provenances or from overextending the range of progeny obtained from seed orchards. If maladaptation occurs soon after planting, replanting can be done, but if it occurs later in stand development, the costs associated with the loss can be much greater. Adaptive traits rely on physiological mechanisms such as photosynthesis, cold acclimation, bud activity, and synthesis of protective compounds, and have a recognizable ecological importance. Identifying physiological traits that improve adaptive fitness will give more information than measurements of survival and growth alone. Also, understanding the environmental limits of genetically selected and wild-stand seedlings will help when delineating breeding and planting zones, and when developing seed transfer guidelines.
The Adaptive
Physiology research program helps forest geneticists and forest nurseries
produce stress-resistant trees with high growth potential by testing genetic
variation in frost hardiness, photosynthetic potential, and phenology, as well
as heat, drought, and other stress tolerances. We test seedlings and young trees
growing in forest nurseries and in planted field test sites. Our goal is to help
maximize field performance of planted seedlings while minimizing the risk of
maladaptation, and conducting research to improve our understanding of how tree
seedlings from a wide range of populations (from both within and outside British
Columbia) will adapt to the effects of
climate change. Recent Highlights
Consultations
Recent PublicationsL'Hirondelle, S.J., D.G. Simpson, and W.D. Binder. 2006. Overwinter storability of conifer planting stock: Operational testing of fall frost hardiness. New Forests 32:307–321. L'Hirondelle, S.J., D.G. Simpson, and W.D. Binder. 2006. Predicting planting stock quality. B.C. Min. For. Range, Res. Br., Victoria, B.C. http://www.for.gov.bc.ca/hfd/pubs/Docs/P/P078.htm L'Hirondelle, S.J., D.G. Simpson, and W.D. Binder. 2007. Chlorophyll fluorescence, root growth potential, and stomatal conductance as estimates of field performance potential in conifer seedlings. New Forests 34: 235–251. Ministry ContactSylvia L’Hirondelle, Research Scientist
Ministry contact: Alvin Yanchuk |
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