Variability in Traits of Gmelin Larch Generative Organs in Eastern Transbaikalia

Abstract

Forest vegetation in Zabaykalsky Krai covers 86.6 % of the total area. The dominant forest species is Gmelin larch (Larix gmelinii (Rupr.) Rupr.), which occupies about 57 % of the forest lands. The area of forests and the amount of certain forest species, in particular Gmelin larch, is decreasing due to climate warming and, as a consequence, the increased number of forest fires, reduction of the range of growing stands, their degradation, as a result of logging including illegal logging. This can lead to the loss of genetic resources. Plantations and forest species valuable for economic use are necessary for the restoration of forests and the creation of artificial plantations. The need for information on genetic and phenotypic traits and properties of plants emerges from the need to reproduce forest plantations with desired features and properties. Such information is currently insufficient in Zabaykalsky Krai. The research aims to determine the phenotypic variability of traits of Gmelin larch generative organs in Zabaykalsky Krai, as well as their relationship with the site conditions. The traits of generative organs of 40 Gmelin larch cenopopulations were studied as a result of expeditionary research in Zabaykalsky Krai. We have found endogenous, population and geographic variability, correlation dependence of traits on the geographic location of plantations, and ecological conditions of the habitat. Correlations between the traits were revealed, and the location of promising larch plantations for selection of seed material was specified. The larch generative organs are described, conclusions on the levels of endogenous, population, and geographic variability of generative organ traits are drawn. Significant and moderate correlations between traits have been found. A number of traits of generative organs are moderately correlated with latitude, longitude of habitat and altitude above sea level, as well as with exposure and steepness of slope, type of hydrotope. The research results will be useful in larch breeding, selection of plantings for seed productivity, as well as for analyzing the patterns of larch variability within the region.