From plus-tree to genomic selection - new developments in breeding strategy at the Radiata Pine Breeding Company (RPBC)

Authors: Mark Paget
Publication: New Zealand Journal of Forestry, Volume N.Z.J.For. 2021, Issue N.Z.J.For. 66(4) 2022, pp 27–35, Jan 2022
Publisher: New Zealand Institute of Forestry

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Abstract: In genetic improvement programmes, breeding strategies are reviewed periodically as breeding populations advance, research gains new insight and the latest technologies are ready to be operationally implemented. The Radiata Pine Breeding Company (RPBC) strategy was reviewed in 2018 and this paper provides an update on the latest developments at the RPBC as the company begins to implement genomics to better inform tree selection decisions. Introduction From its origins in a relatively small geographical region in California and the islands of Cedros and Guadalupe off the coast of Mexico (Figure 1), Pinus radiata D. Don has proved remarkably well adapted to a range of growing conditions in temperate regions of New Zealand, Australia and Chile, producing a versatile general purpose timber.

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