Genetic Strategies for Reducing Pitch Canker Incidence in Slash Pine

Author： Rockwood D. L. Blakeslee G. M. Lowerts G. A. Underhill E. M. Oak S. W.

Publisher： Society of American Foresters

ISSN： 0148-4419

Source： Southern Journal of Applied Forestry, Vol.12, Iss.1, 1988-02, pp. : 28-32

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Abstract

Seedlings or ramets from 224 slash pine (Pinus elliottii var. elliottii Engelm.) clones were evaluated for resistance to the pitch canker fungus Fusarium moniliforme var. subglutinans Wollenw. & Reink. (FMS). Heritabilities and associated genetic gains calculated in five field tests suggest that pitch canker incidence can be reduced through appropriate genetic strategies. Three short-term strategies may be used to reduce incidence: use of an east-central Florida seed source, use of seed from resistant clones in existing orchards, and use of seed from seed production areas developed in epidemic areas. Longer term strategies involving new clonal orchards are predicted to decrease incidence significantly. Pitch canker resistance does not appear to be genetically related to good growth or to resistance to fusiform rust (Cronartium quercuum [Berk] Miyabe ex Shirai f. sp. fusiforme). South. J. Appl. For. 12(1):28-32.