Plant Gene and Traits 2024, Vol.15, No.3, 118-128 http://genbreedpublisher.com/index.php/pgt 120 diversity and support species conservation (Stefenon et al., 2008). By addressing the key challenges and building on these successes, the conservation of tree genetic resources can be further enhanced, ensuring the resilience and sustainability of forest ecosystems for future generations. 3 Genetic Analysis of Tree Populations 3.1 Methods for assessing genetic diversity in trees Genetic diversity in tree populations is crucial for their adaptability and long-term survival. Various molecular markers have been developed and utilized to assess this diversity. These markers include microsatellites, single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), and other genomic tools. Microsatellites, for instance, have been effectively used to estimate genetic diversity at the population level in species like Prioria balsamifera and Prioria oxyphylla (Abeele et al., 2019). SNPs, on the other hand, are particularly useful for studying adaptive genetic variation and have been applied in species such as oaks to understand their adaptation to changing environments (Gailing et al., 2009). The combination of different marker types is often recommended to provide a comprehensive assessment of genetic diversity within and among tree populations (Wang and Szmidt, 2001; Porth and El-Kassaby, 2014). 3.2 Case studies: genetic analysis of endangered and keystone tree species Several case studies highlight the application of genetic analysis in understanding and conserving endangered and keystone tree species. For example, Prioria balsamifera, an endangered tropical tree species, has been studied using newly developed microsatellite markers to assess its genetic diversity and inform conservation strategies (Table 1) (Abeele et al., 2019). Another study focused on Centrolobium tomentosum, a tropical tree species used in restoration projects, utilized a genetic simulation model to evaluate the effects of genetic diversity and population size on the viability of restored populations (Sujii et al., 2019). These studies underscore the importance of genetic analysis in developing effective conservation and management plans for tree species at risk of decline. 3.3 Role of genetic markers in understanding population structure and dynamics Genetic markers play a pivotal role in elucidating the population structure and dynamics of tree species. They help in understanding gene flow, mating systems, and the genetic health of populations. For instance, molecular markers have been used to investigate the genetic diversity, mating system, and gene flow in Neotropical trees, providing insights into how human interventions affect these parameters (Vinson et al., 2018). Effective population size (Ne) is another critical indicator of genetic diversity, and it has been suggested that Ne > 500 is a suitable threshold for maintaining genetic diversity in tree populations (Hoban et al., 2020). Additionally, landscape and population genomics approaches have been proposed to assess the evolutionary potential of tree populations, focusing on adaptive genetic variation and its spatial distribution (Kort and Honnay, 2017). In summary, the use of molecular markers and genetic analysis methods is essential for understanding the genetic diversity, population structure, and dynamics of tree species. These tools provide valuable insights that inform conservation and management strategies, ensuring the long-term survival and adaptability of tree populations in the face of environmental changes. 4 Case Studies: Innovative Utilization of Tree Genetic Resources 4.1 Application of genetic insights in breeding disease-resistant varieties The development of disease-resistant tree varieties has become a critical focus in forestry due to the increasing threats posed by pests and pathogens, exacerbated by climate change. Traditional breeding methods have been the cornerstone of developing resistant genotypes, but recent advancements in genetic engineering have significantly accelerated this process. For instance, genome-wide association studies and genomic selection have facilitated the identification of candidate genes for resistance, enabling more precise and efficient breeding strategies (Naidoo et al., 2019). Additionally, the integration of omics information has further refined the selection process, ensuring the development of superior genotypes with enhanced resistance to biotic stress (Naidoo et al., 2019).
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