(1) Institute of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Cruickshank Building, Aberdeen, AB24 3UU, UK;(2) Forestry Commission, Northern Research Station, Roslin, Midlothian, EH25 9SY, UK
Abstract:
Background
Tree breeders continue to use visual assessments of stem shape and branching habit as part of their selection criteria because these are key features used by timber merchants in assessing stand value. However, it is not known how effective these assessments are in introducing real improvements in stem and branching traits to breeding and production populations of Sitka spruce. This study determined the genetic characteristics of several traits associated with stem straightness and branching, and examined whether these traits are suitable as future selection criteria.
