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Use of DNA markers in forest tree improvement research

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  • DNA as a biochemical marker
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Abstract

DNA markers are rapidly being developed for forest trees. The most important markers are restriction fragment length polymorphisms (RFLPs), polymerase chain reaction- (PCR) based markers such as random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD), and fingerprinting markers. DNA markers can supplement isozyme markers for monitoring tree improvement activities such as; estimating genetic diversity in breeding populations, germplasm identification, verifying controlled crosses, and estimating seed orchard efficiencies. Because the number of DNA markers is potentially limitless, it should be possible to map individual quantitative trait loci (QTL) by linkage analysis with high-density maps. Finally, if such associations can be found, it may also be possible to design marker-assisted breeding strategies for forest trees.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Institute of Forest Genetics, Pacific Southwest Research Station, Box 245, 94701, Berkeley, CA, USA

    D. B. Neale, M. E. Devey, K. D. Jermstad, M. R. Ahuja, M. C. Alosi & K. A. Marshall

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  1. D. B. Neale
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  2. M. E. Devey
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  3. K. D. Jermstad
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  4. M. R. Ahuja
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  5. M. C. Alosi
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Neale, D.B., Devey, M.E., Jermstad, K.D. et al. Use of DNA markers in forest tree improvement research. New Forest 6, 391–407 (1992). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00120654

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