Application of model for tree breeding to conifers in southern Sweden

We propose a long-term breeding program for Norway spruce and Scots pine in southern Sweden based on a model. presented in a parallel paper. For the establishment of the long-term breeding population we propose three founder populations for Norway spruce. one of Swedish origin. the others from the Carpathian mountain range and White Russia respectively. Only one founder population. Swedish. is proposed for Scots pine but we suggest further exploration of foreign sources. For all founder populations we should like two parallel schemes. One should be based on sub populations consisting of 30 to 40 parents each. the other based on selfed lines. In the first alternative. problems with inbreeding depression are avoided: in the second. we intend to purge detrimental genes by inbreeding. The subpopulations will cover southern Sweden. that is. from the south up to 62o latitude It is suggested that the Institute of Forest Tree Improvement takes care of the long-term breeding populations. We consider the long-term breeding effort to be an important means of managing the country's biological resources. and therefore consider it proper for the government to fund the program