Genomics and adaptation in forest ecosystems

Abstract

Rapid human-induced environmental changes like climate warming represent a challenge for forest ecosystems. Due to their biological complexity and the long generation time of their keystone tree species, genetic adaptation in these ecosystems might not be fast enough to keep track with conditions changing at such a fast pace. The study of adaptation to environmental change and its genetic mechanisms is therefore key for ensuring a sustainable support and management of forests. The 4-day conference of the European Research Group EvolTree (https://www.evoltree.eu) on the topic of “Genomics and Adaptation in Forest Ecosystems” brought together over 130 scientists to present and discuss the latest developments and findings in forest evolutionary research. Genomic studies in forest trees have long been hampered by the lack of high-quality genomics resources and affordable genotyping methods. This has dramatically changed in the last few years; the conference impressively showed how such tools are now being applied to study past demography, adaptation and interactions with associated organisms. Moreover, genomic studies are now finally also entering the world of conservation and forest management, for example by measuring the value or cost of interspecific hybridization and introgression, assessing the vulnerability of species and populations to future change, or accurately delineating evolutionary significant units. The newly launched conference series of EvolTree will hopefully play a key role in the exchange and synthesis of such important investigations.

Deep Ecology, Biodiversity and Assisted Natural Regeneration of European Hemiboreal Forests

“…There is also increasing evidence that the intrinsic influences of disturbance susceptibility are phylogenetically inherited, implying that species-level traits are constrained by developmental, genetic, or other correlated limitations [30]. Being the primary species of forest ecosystems, long-lived trees are pivotal in providing associated organisms with a combination of resources and habitats that range from beneficial to detrimental [31]. Therefore, the forest development and growth dynamics of tree species follow relatively fixed patterns and can be difficult to modify in the light of the interactions of both biological and physical processes.…”

Concept for Genetic Monitoring of Hemiboreal Tree Dynamics in Lithuania

“…Long-lived trees as the foundation species of forest ecosystems provide a matrix of resources and habitats for associated organisms, with interactions ranging from beneficial to detrimental [51]. Length of reproductive age and a long-lasting ability to reproduce sexually or vegetatively help tree species to maintain their genetic structure unchanged after founder population establishment, unless human activity is intensive [30].…”

Fluctuating selection and rapid evolution of oaks during recent climatic transitions

“…However, multicentennial tree populations have experienced these major environmental changes during their lifetime, and these changes may have contributed to significant evolutionary changes (Garcia & Arroyo, 2020). Explorations of historical trajectories can provide answers to key questions about the current and future adaptive responses of tree populations (Mitchell & Whitney, 2018; Neophytou et al, 2022). What is the mode and direction of evolution during climatic transition, such as the transition from a cold to a warm climate that occurred from the late LIA to the Anthropocene warming, and how fast does evolution occur in such conditions?…”

“…Explorations of historical trajectories can provide answers to key questions about the current and future adaptive responses of tree populations (Mitchell & Whitney, 2018;Neophytou et al, 2022).…”