Plant Gene and Traits 2024, Vol.15, No.3, 118-128 http://genbreedpublisher.com/index.php/pgt 119 The objectives of this study are to explore conservation strategies, analyze genetic diversity, and discuss innovative utilization of tree genetic resources. Specifically, this study aims to review and evaluate current in situ and ex situ conservation methods, highlighting successful case studies and identifying areas for improvement, assess the genetic diversity within and among tree species, using both traditional and modern genomic approaches, to understand the distribution and extent of genetic variation, and investigate innovative ways to utilize tree genetic resources for sustainable forestry, ecosystem restoration, and climate change mitigation, emphasizing the integration of genetic considerations into practical applications. By addressing these objectives, this study hopes to provide a comprehensive understanding of the current state of tree genetic resource conservation and utilization, offering insights and recommendations for future research and policy development. 2 Conservation of Tree Genetic Resources 2.1 Overview of conservation techniques (in situandex situ) Conservation of tree genetic resources is essential for maintaining biodiversity, ecosystem stability, and the adaptive potential of tree species in the face of environmental changes. Two primary conservation techniques are employed: in situ andex situ conservation. In situ conservation involves protecting and managing tree species within their natural habitats. This method aims to maintain the evolutionary processes and ecological interactions that sustain genetic diversity. In situ conservation is often considered the most effective long-term strategy for preserving genetic diversity, as it allows species to adapt to changing environmental conditions naturally (Rajora and Mosseler, 2001; Lefèvre et al., 2013; Potter et al., 2017). Examples of in situ conservation include the establishment of protected areas, natural reserves, and sustainable forest management practices (Ledig, 1986; Rajora and Mosseler, 2001). Ex situ conservation, on the other hand, involves the preservation of genetic material outside the natural habitat. This approach serves as an insurance policy against extinction and provides material for restoration, research, and public education. Ex situ methods include seed banks, germplasm banks, clone banks, arboreta, and cryopreservation (Ledig, 1986; Rajora and Mosseler, 2001; Pritchard et al., 2014; Potter et al., 2017). Ex situ conservation is particularly valuable for species with small or declining populations and those threatened by habitat loss or climate change (Pritchard et al., 2014; Potter et al., 2017). 2.2 Key challenges in conserving tree genetic resources Several challenges hinder the effective conservation of tree genetic resources. Many tree species lack comprehensive genetic and ecological data, making it difficult to develop targeted conservation trategies (Rajora and Mosseler, 2001; Potter et al., 2017). Inadequate funding and resources often limit the scope and effectiveness of conservation efforts (Rajora and Mosseler, 2001; Aravanopoulos, 2016; Potter et al., 2017). Historically, there has been a lack of coordination within and between conservation sectors, leading to fragmented and inefficient efforts (Lefèvre et al., 2013; Potter et al., 2017). Climate change, habitat fragmentation, introduced pests, diseases, and pollution pose significant threats to tree genetic resources (Rajora and Mosseler, 2001; Rodríguez-Quilón et al., 2016; Potter et al., 2017). Economic forces often favor short-term gains over long-term conservation, leading to practices such as genetic monocultures in production plantations (Zobel, 1976; Ledig, 1986). 2.3 Success stories and best practices in tree conservation Despite the challenges, there have been notable successes and best practices in tree conservation. The establishment of dynamic conservation units across Europe, which maintain genetic diversity within an evolutionary process, has been a significant achievement. This network includes 1967 conservation units and 2737 populations of target trees, demonstrating a coordinated effort to conserve genetic resources (Lefèvre et al., 2013). Innovative approaches that integrate in situ and ex situ conservation have shown promise. For example, the expansion of living collections and the development of cryopreservation techniques have enhanced the genetic diversity of conserved tree species (Pritchard et al., 2014). Advances in genetic monitoring have improved the ability to track changes in genetic variation and structure over time, providing valuable insights for the management of forest genetic resources (Aravanopoulos, 2016). Successful restoration projects, such as those involving Araucaria angustifolia in Brazil, have demonstrated the potential of planted forests to preserve genetic
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