Influence of cambial age and climate on ring width and wood density in Pinus radiata families

? Context

The correlation between tree ring width and density and short-term climate fluctuations may be a useful tool for predicting response of wood formation process to long-term climate change.

? Aims

This study examined these correlations for different radiata pine genotypes and aimed at detecting potential genotype by climate interactions.

? Methods

Four data sets comprising ring width and density of half- and full-sib radiata pine families were used. Correlations with climate variables were examined, after the extraction of the effect of cambial age.

? Results

Cambial age explained the highest proportion of the ring to ring variation in all variables. Calendar year and year by family interaction explained a smaller but significant proportion of the variation. Rainfall had a positive correlation with ring width and, depending on test site, either a negative or positive correlation with ring density. Correlations between temperature during growing season and ring density were generally negative.

? Conclusion

Climate variables that influence ring width and wood density can be identified from ring profiles, after removing the cambial age effect. Families can be selected that consistently show desirable response to climate features expected to become prevalent as a result of climate change.