ARS | Publication request: GENETIC CONSIDERATIONS IN NATIVE PLANT MATERIAL DEVELOPMENT

Submitted to: Agricultural Research Service Publication
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: October 22, 2004
Publication Date: October 29, 2004
Citation: Jones, T.A. 2004. Genetic considerations in native plant material development. Agricultural Research Service Publication.

Technical Abstract: The proper application of genetic principles to development of plant materials can make them more genetically appropriate and effective in restoration efforts. Four issues are commonly debated that should be placed in a scientific context: 1) distribution of genetic variation within and between populations, 2) the advantages and disadvantages of single vs. multiple-origin plant materials, 3) the relative importance of genetic identity and adaptation, and 4) inbreeding depression, outbreeding depression, and implications for hybridization. Most genetic variation is between populations rather than within populations in self-pollinated species, and most genetic variation is within populations rather than between populations in cross-pollinated species. Single-origin materials are more appropriate for self-pollinated species than for cross-pollinated species. Genetic identity and adaptation should be thought of as separate attributes of a plant material - one does not substitute for the other. Adaptation is paramount, and genetic identity may be considered as important or less important than adaptation depending on restoration objectives. Inbreeding depression is commonly an issue in cross-pollinating species. Outbreeding depression may be an issue in cross-pollinating species, especially when there are closely related taxa present. Neither should be considered a problem for self-pollinating species.