DOMESTICATION AND GENETIC DIVERSITY - SHOULD WE BE CONCERNED

Despite the fact that forest trees are in their early stages of domestication, there has been little direct evaluation of the genetic diversity throughout this process. The dynamic changes in the genetic structure of wild conifers were monitored through several bottlenecks, namely: phenotypic selection, seed orchards, seed processing and storage methods, and seedling production. The genetic structure of phenotypically vs. randomly selected individuals of two conifers with known contrasting diversity levels is compared. The biology and management methods practiced in seed orchards are evaluated, and seed extraction and storage procedures are assessed to evaluate common practices on biological peculiarity. Finally, the cultural practices of container nurseries were monitored and their impact on the genetic structure of future forests is evaluated.