Expected genetic gain in melina (gmelina arborea roxb.) in cordoba (colombia)

Abstract

The forest plan in the deparment of Córdoba (Colombia) include to establish 100.000 ha of forest plantations by the year 2025. Melina has been recommended for this region. The objective of this investigation was to estimate the expected genetic gain on melina plus tree. The diameter at breast height, commercial height, trade volume and log quality were assessed. The selection was based on phenotypical evaluation of candidate tree and its four best neighbors within a radius of 20 m. Selected trees were classified in A or B list based on the differential selection value (S). Trees were included in A list when its volume and quality were higher than their four best neighbors or in B list when its volume or quality was higher than their neigbors. The GG was estimated by GG = S*h2, where h2 is the narrow sense heritability average reported. A Selection Index (SI), that integrated the trade volume and log quality values (60 and 40% of weight, respectively), was determined. From 57 selected trees, 35 were classified in A plus list. The expected GG from A plus trees will be 4,95%; 15,47%; 36,65% y 34,25% for the diameter at breast height, commercial height, trade volume and log quality, respectively. This results suggest an important genetic progress in the breeding of melina in Córdoba, Colombia.

Keywords

• melina
• elite trees
• selection differential
• commercial volume
• quality
• selection index.