Two chemical mutagens modulate the seed germination, growth, and phenotypic characteristics of Chinese fir (Cunninghamia lanceolata)

Chinese fir (Cunninghamia lanceolata (Lamb.) Hook), a fast-growing and economically important timber tree species in China, is widely used in construction, furniture, and paper manufacture but has a long breeding cycle. Chemical mutagens, such as ethyl methane sulfonate (EMS) and sodium azide (SA), are widely used in crops such as rice, wheat, cotton, soybean and sugarcane but their utility for tree breeding is unknown. In this study we examined the effects of EMS and SA on Chinese fir seed germination and growth. Chinese fir seeds were treated with the two chemical mutagens; were planted in Jiangle County, Fujian Province, China; and their heights were measured from 2011 to 2017. The concentrations and durations of treatment with the two chemical mutagens were significantly associated with the Chinese fir seedling and mortality rates, as well as with the heights of trees from the seedling stage to 3 years old. We also generated 127 mutants with abnormal branches and reproductive growth. We report here the effects of two chemical mutagens on Chinese fir breeding; our data will contribute to knowledge of the utility of EMS and SA in forestry.