Tree Breeding and Improvement: Theory and Techniques

Contents: 1. Basic and components of tree improvement. 2. Center’s of origin. 3. Pollination and reproduction. 4. Methods of tree breeding. 5. Hybrid development and heterosis. 6. Genetic tests and tools. 7. Statistical tools and techniques applied in tree improvement programme. 8. Biometric techniques in tree improvement. 9. Genetic association. 10. Seed orchards. 11. Forest genetic resources. 12. Clonal forestry. 13. Exotic forestry. 14. Tissue culture and its role in forestry. 15. Forest biotechnology. 16. Tree varietal development process. 17. Tree varietal registration. 18. Tree breeding institutions and organizations. 19. Conventions and protocols. 20. Bibliography.

Tree Breeding and lmprovement is gaining significant attention and attraction across the country as a scientific tool to enhance the productivity and wood quality besides facilitating conservation of Forest Genetic Resources. The science of Tree Breeding is comparatively young but extended greater scope in the recent past in operational plantation development programme. The Tree Breeding and lmprovement has been incorporated as a subject in Under Graduate as well as Post graduate degree programme in Forestry offered at various State Agricultural Universities of the country. The existing text books on Tree Breeding are very limited and the practical aspects of tree breeding have not been evidenced in most books. The students and the tree breeding scientists require a comprehensive text book incorporating all theoretical and practical aspects of tree breeding.