Multi-Trait Selection and Stability in Norway Spruce (Picea abies) Provenance Trials in Romania

Abstract

Provenance trials replicated in multiple environments allow the selection of populations with high and stable performances. In this study, two methods have been applied to select stable Norway spruce provenances with high performances in three provenance trials established in Romania in 1972, where 81 provenances have been tested. Four traits were assessed: total and pruned height, diameter at breast height and survival rate. Two multi-trait indices have been used: multi-trait genotype-ideotype distance index (MGIDI) for each provenance trial and multi-trait stability index (MTSI) across provenance trials. The selection differential was between 0.2 and 17.8% better than each site means. Several Norway spruce provenances showed stability and high performances, as confirmed by both selection indices. Our results provide valuable information for the genetic improvement program and seed transfer guidelines based on assisted migration in this ecologically and economically important forest tree species.