Forest Tree Genetics and Breeding—Identification and Propagation of Hybrids

Dear Colleagues,

Natural hybridisation between different tree species typically occurs where the geographical ranges of closely related species overlap. These zones, often referred to as hybrid or contact zones, are crucial for understanding the dynamics of species interactions and potential gene flow. However, the extent of natural hybridisation is often limited by phenological differences between species. In contrast to natural hybridisation, crossing different tree species produces hybrid trees with the desired characteristics. This process allows for a combination of beneficial traits and properties of different species, such as improved growth rate, disease resistance, or wood quality. However, the introduction of artificial hybrids into natural ecosystems raises concerns about potential impacts on native species. The effects of both natural and artificial hybridisation may include genetic introgression, which can weaken the gene pool of native populations, or ecological competition, where hybrids might outcompete native species in certain habitats. Various propagation methods can be used to conserve hybrid species with specific characteristics. However, propagation by seed may result in trait segregation in subsequent generations, making it challenging to maintain desirable characteristics in populations due to genetic variability.

This Special Issue, titled ‘Forest Tree Genetics and Breeding—Identification and Propagation of Hybrids’, shares the latest research on hybrid tree species, covering the following topics:

• Hybrids identification using genetic, morphometric, chemical, or other methods and their correlations;
• The benefits and risks of hybrid breeding;
• Methods of propagation for hybrids.

Dr. Girmantė Jurkšienė
Dr. Darius Kavaliauskas
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

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Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Forests is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

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