Tree Genetics and Molecular Breeding 2024, Vol.14, No.3, 106-118 http://genbreedpublisher.com/index.php/tgmb 114 traditional genetic dissection approaches (Grattapaglia et al., 2018). Additionally, predictive genomic approaches that merge heterogeneous genomic and ecological datasets using machine learning are becoming imperative to enhance the accuracy of adaptive selection and to understand the genomic potential for adaptation to different environments (Cortés et al., 2020). 8.2 Potential for global collaborations in tree genomic studies Global collaborations are crucial for advancing tree genomic research. Projects like the Darwin Tree of Life Project demonstrate the potential for large-scale, high-quality genome sequencing through international cooperation between biodiversity organizations and genomics institutes. Such collaborations can facilitate the collection, identification, and sequencing of specimens, thereby generating valuable genomic data that can be openly shared with the global scientific community. Furthermore, the success of genomic selection (GS) in tree breeding, which has shown promise in accelerating breeding cycles and improving the accuracy of breeding values, underscores the need for collaborative efforts to optimize prediction models and integrate multi-environment data (Grattapaglia et al., 2018; Grattapaglia, 2022). These global initiatives can also help address the technical, scientific, and social constraints that currently limit the application of genomics in tree breeding and conservation. 8.3 Funding and resource allocation for future genomic initiatives Adequate funding and resource allocation are critical for the continued advancement of tree genomic research. The implementation of genomic technologies in genebanks, for example, requires fundamental changes in management, organization, and funding to fully realize their potential (Wambugu et al., 2018). Increased collaboration between genebank managers and the user community is also recommended to enhance the utility of plant genetic resources. Additionally, the establishment of breeder-friendly and cost-effective genotyping platforms, as well as methods based on low-pass whole genome sequencing with imputation, can further reduce genotyping costs and make advanced tree breeding more accessible (Grattapaglia, 2022). Large-scale programs like the US Precision Medicine Initiative and the UK Biobank Initiative provide exemplary models of how interdisciplinary and well-funded efforts can bring the promise of genomics to fruition (Musunuru et al., 2018). These initiatives highlight the importance of strategic, logistical, and financial planning in optimizing the adoption of genomic selection and other advanced genomic methods in tree breeding and conservation. 9 Concluding Remarks The journey from leaves to roots in tree genome mapping has been marked by significant advancements and challenges. Initially, efforts focused on understanding the genetic basis of tree species through phylogenomics, which aimed to construct evolutionary trees from genomic sequences. This approach has evolved to include landscape genomics, which links genetic variations to environmental factors, providing insights into tree conservation strategies under changing climates. The Darwin Tree of Life Project exemplifies the ambition to sequence the genomes of all eukaryotic life, including trees, to support biodiversity and conservation efforts. Additionally, innovative methods like genotyping-by-sequencing have enabled the mapping of root systems, revealing the intricate belowground architecture of trees. These efforts have been complemented by advances in quantitative genetics and genomics, which have accelerated tree breeding by predicting complex phenotypes and improving breeding cycles. Collectively, these studies have provided a comprehensive understanding of tree genomes from their leaves to their roots, highlighting the complexity and adaptability of tree species. This study has synthesized key findings from various studies, highlighting the multifaceted approaches used in tree genomic research. By integrating phylogenomics, landscape genomics, and high-throughput sequencing techniques, we have provided a holistic view of tree genome mapping. The study underscores the importance of reconciling gene trees with species networks to understand complex evolutionary events. It also emphasizes the role of landscape genomics in tree conservation, particularly in predicting genetic responses to climate change. The Darwin Tree of Life Project's contributions to high-quality genome sequencing and its implications for biodiversity conservation have been highlighted. Furthermore, the development of scalable methods for mapping root systems and the convergence of quantitative genetics and genomics in tree breeding have been discussed,
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjQ4ODYzMg==