Clonal Seed Orchard of Teak (<i>Tectona grandis</i> L.f.): Genetic Diversity Measures Primary Basis for Future Environmental Uncertainty

Abstract

To gain understanding of the importance of genetic diversity, seed source and ecotype variation of clonal seed orchard (CSO) of teak, the lower genetic diversity might be causing, to some extent inbreeding in CSO affecting seed set, seed germination and seedling health. However, the genetic diversity forms primary basis for future environmental uncertainties, these factors is insufficient to explain the poor performance of seed orchards with respect to seed production and viability. Future CSOs may be established using genetically diverse clones selected from same provenance and showing profuse synchronized flowering and seed set. These attributes have to be ensured while selecting candidate plus trees or plus trees from which the clones are derived.