Wightman, Kevyn, Rodríguez Santiago, Bartolo, Ward, Sheila, and Cornelius, Jonathan (2005) Domestication of spanish cedar and mahogany in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico: experiences in forest tree germplasm improvement. Recursos Naturales y Ambiente, 44. pp. 119-128.

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Abstract

While the demand for big-leaf mahogany and Spanish cedar timber does not decline, the supply of these regionally important fine hardwood species has dwindled significantly. Plantations can help meet this demand, if the shoot borer is controlled through silvicultural techniques as well as selected seed sources. A participatory domestication program was implemented to improve germplasm quality and access in the Yucatan peninsula. Medium and short term strategies included the establishment of provenance/progeny trials, the conservation of a natural seed stand, and selection of urban seed trees. Five and two year data show significant differences between seed sources for growth and pest attack characteristics, indicating potential for genetic and economic gain. The process used for selection of seed trees in a 400 ha forest was simple and inexpensive, but also demonstrated that many trees may not be suitable for seed sources. The use and comparison of seed from urban trees is a useful educational tool in the domestication process. All of these efforts show the importance of a wide genetic base in reforestation programs. As with other timber species, specific steps can be taken to improve germplasm quality, and thus economic livelihood of people who plant trees.

Item ID:	10459
Item Type:	Article (Research - C1)
ISSN:	1659-1216
Keywords:	mahogany; cedar; participatory research; reforestation; improved seed; genetic base; weed management; Hypsipyla grandella; Chrysobothris yucatanensis
Additional Information:	Spanish title: Domesticación de cedro y caoba en la península de Yucatán, México. Experiencias en el mejoramiento del germoplasma forestal
Date Deposited:	05 May 2010 03:36
FoR Codes:	07 AGRICULTURAL AND VETERINARY SCIENCES > 0705 Forestry Sciences > 070507 Tree Improvement (Selection and Breeding) @ 100%
SEO Codes:	82 PLANT PRODUCTION AND PLANT PRIMARY PRODUCTS > 8201 Forestry > 820101 Hardwood Plantations @ 100%
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