Conservation and Sustainable Use of Forest Genetic Resources of English Yew (Taxus baccata L.) in Bavaria

Abstract

For sustainable forest development a stable, functional, and therefore species-rich ecosystem is required to fulfil the diverse functions of forests. Rare tree species contribute substantially to diversity and provided an important habitat function for other species. Further, they have a vital impact on the stability of forest ecosystems and increase their biodiversity. Under climate change, these tree species become more important and should be planted in the forest to divide upcoming risks among different tree species. In the study altogether 906 trees from 19 populations of English yew were sampled evenly along the Bavarian distribution range. Our study based on 13 isoenzyme markers identified substantial genetic variation between the populations. Based on genetic variation within and between studied populations seed stands and gene conservation units (GCU) were proposed. In addition, following our results provenance recommendations were drawn. Selected forest genetic resources (FGR) will be presented in the Bavarian Forest reproductive material (FRM) information system. In addition to dynamic in-situ conservation, an ex-situ conservation of the English yew is sought through long-term seed storage and the establishment of a seed orchard. Thus, the first 19 plus trees have been selected. The number of plus trees should be increased by further selection taking into consideration the balance between female and male English yew trees. All efforts will have a strong impact on the conservation of the FGR of English yew in Bavaria.