Genomic offset modeling for climate-smart seed conservation in red spruce
Conference Year
2024
Abstract
Red spruce is highly vulnerable to climate change and has been a target of significant conservation efforts. Although restoration efforts have historically agreed that "local is best,” climate change is shifting prior gene-environment relationships. Here, we model genomic offset, a measure of climate maladaptation, to select red spruce stands for future planting into a seed orchard in the Green Mountain National Forest. We identify genotypes adapted to a range of future climate conditions anticipated in the northeast by the end of the century. Our objective is to conserve climate-adaptive genetic diversity in red spruce and produce seed for restoration plantings.
Primary Faculty Mentor Name
Stephen Keller
Status
Graduate
Student College
College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
Program/Major
Plant Biology
Primary Research Category
Life Sciences
Genomic offset modeling for climate-smart seed conservation in red spruce
Red spruce is highly vulnerable to climate change and has been a target of significant conservation efforts. Although restoration efforts have historically agreed that "local is best,” climate change is shifting prior gene-environment relationships. Here, we model genomic offset, a measure of climate maladaptation, to select red spruce stands for future planting into a seed orchard in the Green Mountain National Forest. We identify genotypes adapted to a range of future climate conditions anticipated in the northeast by the end of the century. Our objective is to conserve climate-adaptive genetic diversity in red spruce and produce seed for restoration plantings.