Epigenetic regulation of adaptive responses of forest tree species to the environment

Epigenetic variation is likely to contribute to the phenotypic plasticity and adaptative capacity of plant species, and may be especially important for long-lived organisms with complex life cycles, including forest trees. Diverse environmental stresses and hybridization/polyploidization events can create reversible heritable epigenetic marks that can be transmitted to subsequent generations as a form of molecular “memory”. Epigenetic changes might also contribute to the ability of plants to colonize or persist in variable environments. In this review, we provide an overview of recent data on epigenetic mechanisms involved in developmental processes and responses to environmental cues in plant, with a focus on forest tree species. We consider the possible role of forest tree epigenetics as a new source of adaptive traits in plant breeding, biotechnology, and ecosystem conservation under rapid climate chang

The role of photoperiod and temperature in the induction and the release of dormancy in Pinus sylvestris L. seedlings

International audienc

Studies on frost hardiness of Pinus contorta Dougl. seedlings grown in climate chambers

Pinus contorta populations from latitudes 47o to 63'N were cultivated in climate chambers and freeze tested at varying photoperiods. The results were compared with data from field trials comprising other populations from the same latitudinal range. A good agreement between our data on frost hardiness from the climate chambers and the ones front field trials was obtained. Breeding for frost hardiness in Pinus contorta ought to be done by early testing using the design developed in the present investigation. The longer the night length the greater the hardiness. Low temperature during the night promotes the development of hardiness. The more northern the origin the shorter the night length required to induce hardiness. Dry matter content of the upper 3 cm of the shoots and the lengthening of the secondary needles are strongly correlated with hardiness