fgrresearchHIGHLIGHTS

Research Update on IPGRI’s Forest Genetic Resources Projects

Issue 2004

1 EDITORIAL

IPGRI’s future direction: thenew strategy

2 LOCATING AND MONITORING

GENETIC DIVERSITY IN FOREST

ECOSYSTEMS

2 Phylogeography of neotropical trees

4 COMPLEMENTARY CONSERVATION

STRATEGIES

4 Conservation of rare dipterocarps:Shorea lumutensis in Malaysia

5 Conservation and sustainable use of FGR in Argentina and Brazil

9 Seed biology of Uapaca kirkiana,Sorindeia madagascariensis andBridelia micrantha

10 Conserving Thailand’s forest genetic resources

12 CONSERVATION OF GENETIC

RESOURCES OF NTFP SPECIES

13 Bamboo and rattan13 Workshop on conservation of

genetic resources of NTFP species in Ethiopia

15 CAPACITY BUILDING FOR FGR CONSERVATION

15 Abdou Salam Ouédraogo Fellowship17 Vavilov–Frankel Fellowship

21 REGIONAL PROGRAMMES ON

FGR21 APFORGEN:Asia, Pacific and

Oceania – launching the FGR programme

23 Central and Western Asia, and North Africa

24 EUFORGEN enters phase III27 SAFORGEN

28 IPGRI PUBLICATIONS

30 IPGRI FGR SCIENTISTS

30 NON-IPGRI CONTRIBUTORS

MAIN DONORS TO THE FGRPROGRAMME

INDEX

ABOUT FGR RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTSThis informal publication is to provide anupdate on IPGRI’S research on conservationand use of forest genetic resources worldwide.

IPGRI recently underwent a consul-tative process to review its strategy.IPGRI’s new strategy is focused on‘diversity for well-being’. Its aim is,“to promote the greater well-beingof people, particularly poor peoplein developing countries, by helpingthem to achieve food security, toimprove their health and nutrition,to boost their incomes, and to con-serve the natural resources on whichthey depend. IPGRI works with aglobal range of partners to maximizeimpact, to develop capacity and toensure that all stakeholders have aneffective voice.” The six principal objectives are:● to demonstrate the social, economic

and environmental benefits of agri-cultural biodiversity;

● to ensure that agricultural biodiver-sity is conserved, characterized andused to improve productivity;

● to generate knowledge about agri-cultural biodiversity throughresearch, and to make such knowl-edge available;

● to develop human and institutional capacity to make effective and sustainable useof agriculture;

● to analyze policies and foster an environment that supports the use of agriculturalbiodiversity;

● to raising awareness of the value of agricultural biodiversity and the importance ofthe conservation of genetic resources.

(Source: IPGRI’s ‘Diversity for Well-being’ fact sheet)

The new strategy will have a bearing on IPGRI’s work on forest genetic resources(FGR), which is still recognized as a core activity. The FGR research activities willneed to focus further on the conservation of FGR that benefit local communitiesdirectly. In particular, the focus will be on those resources that contribute directly tothe promotion of food security, poverty eradication and environmental protection. In

IPGRI’s future direction: the new strategy

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fgr researchHIGHLIGHTS

Locating andmonitoringgenetic diversity in forests Phylogeographyof neotropicaltrees

addition, we will play a significantrole in the management and dissemi-nation of FGR information to stake-holders. Some aspects of the ForestGenetic Resources Strategies (FGRS)project have already changed toreflect the shifts in the forestrydomain. For example, in situ and exsitu conservation strategies are nolonger promoted as separate mea-sures. Instead, they are seen as com-ponents of complementary conserva-tion strategies that seek to build oneach other’s advantages to promoteconservation of tree species and forestecosystems. Our work on the conser-vation of genetic resources of non-timber forest product (NTFP) specieswill expand to include other NTFPspecies and not be limited to bambooand rattan only, as in previous years.There will be an increased need tocontribute to the various internation-al processes affecting biodiversity inforest ecosystems through theConvention on Biological Diversity(CBD) and its expanded work pro-gramme on forest biological diversity,the United Nations FrameworkConvention on Climate Change(UNFCCC), the Inter-governmentalPanel on Forests (IPF), etc. More col-laborative work will need to be initiat-ed with other actors in forestry andother sectors. In this period, we have consolidatedour work on: ● locating and monitoring genetic

diversity in forest ecosystems● policies, strategies and priority set-

ting for FGR conservation● complementary conservation strate-

gies● genetic resources of NTFPs● capacity building● international cooperation● management and dissemination of

FGR information.

IPGRI’s FGR team has grown overthe years, and it will continue to growas we take on more tasks in the con-servation and management of FGR inall regions of the world. We believethat the expertise gained over theyears plus strong commitment fromour partners will contribute to therealization of our goals.

Aresearch project on the phylo-geography of neotropical treeswas initiated in 2002 with the

Smithsonian Tropical ResearchInstitute in Panama. Its aims were to:(i) train Latin American scientists; (ii)carry out studies on the geographicdistribution of species in order toestablish the phylogeny of some

neotropical trees; (iii) conduct popu-lation genetic analyses on some ofthese trees; and (iv) initiate collabora-tive research in the Atlantic forests ofBrazil. The results to date from thevarious components of this projectare reported below.A study on the population genetics ofMesoamerican mahogany (Swieteniamacrophylla) based on microsatellitevariation revealed that S. macrophyllacould be subdivided into geneticallydistinct subregional populations. Thishas important implications for thesustained management and conserva-tion of this highly endangered

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Composite of trunk, fruit and flowers of Symphonia globulifera (Panama)

E D I T O R I A L(continued)

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of the TWOGENER analysis of pollendispersal distributions. This providedthe first opportunity to apply this kindof analysis to a tropical tree species. In October 2002, a month-long work-shop on the development ofmicrosatellite markers was conductedwith eight students participating.Two Latin American students devel-oped microsatellites for tropical treespecies. Ivan Landires (Panama)developed microsatellites forSymphonia globulifera (Clusiaceae);and Catalina Perdomo (Universidadde Los Andes, Colombia) developedmarkers for Inga marginata (Mimosaceae).The study revealed the spatial extentof the three neotropical S. globuliferaclades, which represent the trans-Andes (Mesoamerica and westernEcuador), the Cis-Andes (Amazoniaand Guiana) and the West Indies clades.Strong phylogeographic structurewas found among trans-Andean pop-ulations of S. globulifera stands in con-trast to an absence of internal tran-scribed spacer (ITS) nucleotide varia-tion across the Amazonian basin. Thisfinding indicates profound regionaldifferences in the demographic histo-ry of this rainforest tree. Drawing onthese results, we can provide a bio-geographic hypothesis to account fordifferences in the patterns of betadiversity within Mesoamerican andAmazonian forests. The broad geo-graphic range of many neotropicalrainforest tree species implies excel-lent dispersal abilities. The nuclear

ribosomal spacer region of S. globuliferaL.F. populations was sequenced toinitiate historical analyses of suchwidespread neotropical trees. Thisstudy establishes three marine dis-persal events leading to the coloniza-tion of Mesoamerica, the Amazonbasin and the West Indies, thus sup-porting palaeontological data.Several visits were made to three insti-tutions in Brazil to lay the ground-work for collaborative research in lab-oratories in Brazil. Lectures were giv-en at the University of São Paulo atRiberão Preto and the University ofSão Paulo at Piracicaba. The laborato-ries of Maristerra Lemes and RogerioGribel at the Institute for AmazonStudies (INPA) in Manaus were visit-ed to discuss collaborative research.

For further information, please contact:Dr Christopher Dick, SmithsonianTropical Research Institute(dickc@naos.si.edu), or Dr BarbaraVinceti, IPGRI HQ (bvinceti@cgiar.org)

DDeettaaiillss ooff tthheessee ssttuuddiieess ccaann bbee ffoouunndd iinn::Austerlitz, F., C.W. Dick, C. Dutech, E. Klein, S.Oddou-Muratoria, P.E. Smouse and V.L. Sork.2004. Using genetic markers to estimate thepollen dispersal curve. Mol Ecol 13:937–954.

Dick, C., G. Etchelecu and F. Austerlitz. 2003.Pollen dispersal of tropical trees (Dinizia excelsa;Fabaceae) by native insects and Africanhoneybees in pristine and fragmentedAmazonian rainforest. Mol Ecol 12:723–764.

Novick, R.R., C. Dick, M.R. Lemes, C. Navarro,A. Caccone and E. Bermingham. 2003. Geneticstructure of Mesoamerican populations and big-leaf mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla) inferredfrom microsatellite analysis. Mol Ecol12:2885–2893.

LOCATING GENETIC DIVERSITY

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Felled Brazilian mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla) (Brazil)

species. The study used seven vari-able microsatellite loci to assess genet-ic diversity and population structurein eight naturally establishedmahogany populations in sixMesoamerican countries. Measures ofgenetic differentiation (FST and RST)indicate significant differencesbetween most populations. The twopopulations on the Pacific coast (CostaRica and Panama) were generally dis-tant from all the others, and from eachother. The remaining populationsformed two clusters: one comprisingthe northern populations of Belize,Guatemala and Mexico; and the sec-ond containing the southern Atlanticpopulations of Costa Rica andNicaragua. Significant correlation wasfound between geographical distanceand all pair-wise measures of geneticdivergence, suggesting the importanceof regional biogeography and isola-tion by distance that has been foundacross Amazon-basin S. macrophylla.Dinizia excelsa is an important timbertree endemic to the BrazilianAmazon. Using microsatellite geno-types, outcrossing rates and pollendispersal distance in remnant Diniziaexcelsa were compared in three largeranches and in a population in undis-turbed forest without bees. Self-fertil-ization was more frequent in the dis-turbed habitats than in undisturbedforest. Pollen dispersal was extensivein all the three ranches compared toundisturbed forest. Using TWOGENERanalysis, a mean pollen dispersal dis-tance of 1509 m was estimated inColosso ranch (assuming an expo-nential dispersal function) comparedwith 212 m in undisturbed forest.The low effective density of D. excelsain undisturbed forest (0.1 trees/ha)indicates that large areas of rainforestmust be preserved in order to main-tain minimum viable populations.However, the results also suggestthat, in highly disturbed habitats,Apis mellifera may expand geneticneighbourhood areas, thereby linkingfragmented and continuous forestpopulations.This work provided our partnerswith an opportunity to collaboratewith Frederic Austerlitz (INRA,Bordeaux) in an empirical application

4 fgr research

Effective conservation of biologicaldiversity requires information onthe biology of the species or sys-

tem in question. The most critical bio-logical information that is needed forplant conservation has been an issueof discussion for the last 30 years(Duffey and Watts, 1971; Franklin,1980; Frankel and Soulé, 1981;Schonewald-Cox et al., 1983; Soulé,1987; Lande, 1988; Falk and Holsinger,1991; Caro and Laurenson, 1994; Gray,1996). Most scientists promote anapproach that is either ecological orgenetic in emphasis. Proponents of apopulation genetics approach havestressed that understanding the orga-nization of genetic diversity is key tothe long-term survival of a species, asgenetic variation is a prerequisite forevolutionary adaptation and short-term fitness (Berry, 1971; Lande andBarrowclough, 1987; Vrijenhoek, 1987;Hamrick et al., 1991). Others affirmthat autecological research, i.e. charac-terizing the biotic interaction andhabitat requirement of a species, iscritical to sound conservation prac-tices (Burgman et al., 1988; Simberloff,1988; Brussard, 1991).Assessing the status of rare diptero-

carps and prioritization among conser-vation approaches require a goodunderstanding of the factors that affectthe number of individuals within aspecies. Population genetic processescan result in changes in allele numberand frequency as well as levels of het-erozygosity. Reduced heterozygositycan result in a decrease in populationgrowth owing to inbreeding depression(Charlesworth and Charlesworth 1987).On the other hand, allelic richnesscould contribute to population growththrough its effect on evolutionarypotential, or the ability of a species torespond to changes in its selective envi-ronment (Koehn and Hilbish 1987).Ecological interactions between plantsand their environment can influencepopulation growth rates via their effectson fecundity, growth, or the survival of

individuals (Blundell and Peart, 2001;Peters 2003; Ickes et al. 2003). In summary, genetic, demographicand environmental stochasticitiesdetermine the persistence of popula-tions in the long run. Ecological andgenetic processes often interact syner-gistically to influence the numbers ofindividuals within a species. Thus, inaddition to ecological information, theconservation and management of raredipterocarps requires a sound under-standing of genetic processes and vari-ations within and between popula-tions. The studies on populationdynamics and demographic patternswill enhance understanding of the nat-ural processes that operate within apopulation. Hence, they will enableformulation of more efficient manage-ment practices for the species in natur-

fgr researchfgr researchHIGHLIGHTS

Complementaryconservation strategiesConservation of rare dipterocarps:Shorealumutensisin Malaysia

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Buds of Shorea lumutensis, a rare and endemic dipterocarp flowering in Sungai Pinang FR (Malaysia)

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al forests as well as the developmentof sounder silvicultural systems forpopulations in which logging opera-tions will be conducted. In addition,information about reproductive biolo-gy (e.g. pollinators, mating systemand pollen-mediated gene flow) andthe number of individuals required toform a viable and genetically diversepopulation are aspects that shouldalso be investigated for effective in situand ex situ conservation programmes.In order to conserve rare and endan-gered dipterocarps, it will be neces-sary to collect seeds or other propag-ules for ex situ conservation to provideinsurance against catastrophic eventsand to facilitate possible reintroduc-tion when appropriate habitatsbecome available.Dipterocarps are, economically, highlyvaluable tree species for many coun-tries in Southeast Asia. In addition,dipterocarp forests host a huge arrayof biodiversity. In Peninsular Malaysiaalone, some 155 species of the familyDipterocarpaceae have been identified(Ashton 1982). However, developedconservation strategies for dipterocarpspecies are lacking. Since 2001, theForest Research Institute of Malaysia(FRIM) and IPGRI have been collabo-rating to explore the genetic diversityof and to develop conservation strate-gies for Shorea lumutensis, a rare speciesendemic to Peninsular Malaysia. Thelong-term goal of this project is to givescientific support to the design of newin situ conservation areas as well as toestablish an ex situ conservation pro-gramme for the species.The genus Shorea consists of about 194species and is widely distributed fromSri Lanka and India to Southeast Asiancountries. Malaysia has 18 Shoreaspecies (Soerianegara and Lemmens1994). S. lumutensis has a restricted dis-tribution area on the western coastalhills of the peninsula, mainly above100 m above sea level. In the pastdecades, the population of the specieshas become more fragmented as aresult of land-use changes. In addition,some of the remaining natural popula-tions of S. lumutensis are also threat-ened by logging. For these reasons,new conservation strategies for thespecies need to be developed.

This project was initiated in 2001 tocarry out detailed studies of thespecies in its natural habitat for thefirst time. As a result of the first yearof study (ending in September 2002),some basic information on the geneticsand ecology of S. lumutensis was gen-erated on the following aspects: genet-ic diversity, spatial genetic structure,demographic structure, spatial distrib-ution of individuals and association ofspatial distribution, and microenviron-mental heterogeneity. (For more back-ground information on the project,please refer to the previous issue ofFGR Research Highlights.) The secondphase of the project identified sevenmajor research areas: ● phenological observations;● seed collection;● germination test;● mating system study;● direct estimation of gene flow;● short-term population dynamics;● and preparation of planting stock

using seeds.

In September 2003, two new popula-tions of S. lumutensis were discovered inSegari Melintang and Telok MurohForest Reserves (FRs). In April 2004, anadditional population was discoveredin Pangkor Selatan FR. From this, it canbe concluded that the distribution of S.lumutensis is restricted to ManjungDistrict and can only be found in fiveforest reserves. Major threats to the exis-tence of this species in its natural habi-tat include: logging activities (SegariMelintang FR); excavation of stone(quarry); conversion to oil-palm planta-tion (Lumut and Teluk Muroh FRs);and tourism development (PangkorSelatan and Sungai Pinang FRs).One flowering event of S. lumutensiswas observed in August–September2002 in Sungai Pinang FR. Periodicphenological surveillance of the popu-lation in Sungai Pinang has beenundertaken according to the method-ology identified by Appanah andChan (1982) to determine the flower-ing stages, flowering intensity andfruiting stages. Flowering intensitywas high for all the observed trees.The period from the tail floweringstage to mature fruit fall was about 10weeks, and the period from the bud-

COMPLEMENTARY CONSERVATION STRATEGIES

ding stage to mature fruit fall wasabout 16 weeks. Fruit predation wasextensive with small mammals con-suming the majority of fallen fruits. Asthe flowering event was sporadic andinvolved only five observed trees, ahigh proportion of selfing might beanticipated. Some 500 seeds were col-lected from four mother trees.Germination of the collected seed waspoor and the growth of the seedlingsbecame very slow three months aftergermination. This might indicateinbreeding depression due to selfing.In order to aid in the assessment ofgenetic diversity and to identify high-ly polymorphic molecular markers fordirect estimation of gene flow, fivemicrosatellite markers have beendeveloped and characterized for S.lumutensis using a genomic libraryenriched for dinucleotide (CT).Paternity analysis (direct estimationof gene flow via immigration ofpollen) and a mating system studyare currently being carried out usingthese markers as well as fourmicrosatellite markers developed forS. leprosula. Subsequently, the effec-tive breeding unit will be calculated.Outcrossing and selfing rates will bedirectly inferred and calculated fromthe multilocus genotype of half-sibprogenies and mother trees.The previous study indicated that useof wildings as planting material wasnot a feasible option with S. lumutensis.The planting materials currently avail-able for ex situ conservation consist ofseedlings from Sungai Pinang FR.Seed collections will be continued inthe other populations to widen thegene pool. The present results and theongoing studies on population geneticstructure, mating system and popula-tion dynamics (review census) willhelp in the establishment of more effi-cient and effective in situ and ex situconservation programmes for thespecies in the near future.For further information, please contact:Dr Lee Soon-Leong, Senior ResearchOfficer, Forest Research Institute ofMalaysia, Kepong, Kuala Lumpur,Malaysia (leesl@frim.gov.my), or TapioLuoma-aho, Associate Scientist, IPGRIAsia, Pacific and Oceania (tluoma-aho@ipgri-apo.cgiar.org)

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Aproject on the conservation, sus-tainable use and managementof forest genetic resources (FGR)

with reference to Argentina andBrazil was implemented between2000 and 2003. This work was madepossible by the support of theBundesministerium für wirtschaftlicheZusammenarbeit und Entwicklung(BMZ) – the German Ministry forEconomic Cooperation andDevelopment. The aim of the project was to developmanagement practices that supportconservation efforts throughimproved understanding of theimpact of human activities on thegenetic diversity and ecological

processes in different forest ecosys-tems across Brazil and Argentina. Theecosystems selected for the projectwere: the Araucaria araucana forests insouthwestern Argentina; the Araucariaangustifolia forests in southern Braziland northern Argentina; the Atlanticforest in southeastern Brazil; and theAmazonian rainforests in northernBrazil. The project involved researchersand partners from different disciplines(ecology, genetics and socioeconomics)carrying out research activities using aparticipatory approach. At each of theproject sites, local research instituteshave been conducting research in col-laboration with local non-governmen-tal organizations (NGOs), governmen-

tal organizations and local communityrepresentatives to: develop sustain-able-use practices for timber and non-timber forest products; contribute torestoration of degraded landscapes;and explore options to minimize theimpact of land-use changes.The project has generated a wealth ofbaseline information on Araucaria for-est ecosystems in Argentina and Braziltogether with a preliminary under-standing of their socioeconomic andpolicy context. Research partners andstakeholders have identified areas forfurther research, experimental applica-tion of results, and capacity building.These include: ● refinement of system-based models

describing forest genetic, socioeco-nomic and ecological dynamics;

● better understanding of the factorsthat shape forest genetic diversity inAraucaria at local and regional level;

fgr researchfgr researchHIGHLIGHTS

Appanah, S. and H.T. Chan. 1982. Methods ofstudying the reproductive biology of someMalaysian primary forest trees. Malays For45:10–20.

Ashton, P.S. 1982. Dipterocarpaceae. Flo Males9:237–552.

Berry, R.J. 1971. Conservation aspects of thegenetical constitution of populations. Pp.177–206 in The Scientific Management ofAnimal and Plant Communities forConservation. (E. Duffey and A.S. Watt, eds.).Blackwell Scientific, Oxford, UK.

Blundell, A.G. and D.R. Peart. 2001. Growthstrategies of a shade-tolerant tropical tree: theinteractive effects of canopy gaps and simulatedherbivory. J Ecol 89:608–615.

Brussard, P.F. 1991. The role of ecology in bio-logical conservation. Ecol Appl 1:6–12.

Burgman, M.A., H.R. Akcakaya and S.S. Loew.1988. The use of extinction models for speciesconservation. Biol Conserv 43:9–25.

Caro,T.M. and M.K. Laurenson. 1994. Ecologicaland genetic factors in conservation: a caution-ary tale. Science 263:485–486.

Charlesworth, D. and B. Charlesworth. 1987.Inbreeding depression and its evolutionary con-sequences.Annu Rev Ecol Syst 18:237–268.

Duffey, E. and A.S.Watts (eds.). 1971.The ScientificManagement of Animal and Plant Communitiesfor Conservation. Blackwell Scientific,Oxford,UK.

Falk, D. A. and Holsinger, K. (eds.). 1991.Genetics and Conservation of Rare Plants.Oxford University Press, New York, USA.

Frankel, O.H. and M.E. Soulé, 1981.Conservation and Evolution. CambridgeUniversity Press, Cambridge, UK.

Franklin, I.R. 1980. Evolutionary change in smallpopulations. Pp. 135–150 in ConservationBiology: an Evolutionary–Ecological Perspective(M.E. Soulé and B.A. Wilcox, eds.). Sinauer,Sunderland, USA.

Gray, A.J. 1996. The genetic basis of conserva-tion. Pp. 107–121 in Conservation Biology (I.F.Spellerberg, ed.). Longman Publishers, Singapore.

Hamrick, J.L., M.J.W. Godt, D.A. Murawski andM.D. Loveless. 1991. Correlation betweenspecies traits and allozyme diversity: implica-tions for conservation biology. Pp. 75–86 inGenetics and Conservation of Rare Plants (D.A.Falk and K.E. Holsinger, eds.). Oxford UniversityPress, New York, USA.

Ickes, K., S.J. Dewalt and S.C. Thomas. 2003.Resprouting of woody saplings following stemsnap by wild pigs in a Malaysian rain forest. J Ecol91:222–233.

Koehn, R.K. and T.J. Hilbish. 1987. The adaptiveimportance of genetic variation. Am Sci75:134–141.

Lande, R. and G.F. Barrowclough. 1987. Effectivepopulation size, genetic variation, and their usein population management. Pp. 87–124 in ViablePopulations for Conservation (M.E. Soulé, ed.).Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, UK.

Lande, R.C. 1988. Genetics and demography inbiological conservation. Science 241:1455–1460.

Peters, H.A. 2003. Neighbour-regulated mortal-ity: the influence of positive and negative den-sity dependence on tree populations in species-rich tropical forests. Ecol Lett 6:757–765.

Schonewald-Cox, C.M., S.M. Chambers, F.MacBryde and L.Thomas (eds.). 1983. Geneticsand Conservation: a Reference for ManagingWild Animal and Plant Populations. BenjaminCummings, California, USA.

Simberloff, D. 1988.The contribution of popula-tion and community biology to conservationscience.Annu Rev Ecol Syst 19:473–511.

Soerianegara, I. and R.H.M.J. Lemmens (eds.).1994. Plant Resources of South-East Asia.Timber Trees: Major Commercial Timbers, No.5(1). PROSEA, Bogor, Indonesia.

Soulé, M.E. 1987. Where do we go from here?Pp. 176–183 in Viable Populations forConservation (M.E. Soulé, ed.). CambridgeUniversity Press, Cambridge, UK.

Vrijenhoek, R.C. 1987. Population genetics andconservation. Pp. 89–98 in Conservation for the21st Century (D.Western and M.C. Pearl, eds.).Oxford University Press, New York, USA.

LITERATURE CITED

Conservation and sustainable useof FGR in Argentina and Brazil

structure of genetic diversity.Achievements and findings wereanalysed in the light of goals set atthe beginning of the project, identify-ing also the major gaps. The mainpurpose of this was to reach a generalintegrated view of the system underinvestigation, with the biological andanthropic components integrated foreach site. This provided an opportu-nity for participants to become famil-iar with the details of each case study,through a series of presentations giv-en by project coordinators. One ses-sion focused on challenges posed bythe participatory and interdisciplinaryapproaches of the research methods.It was later agreed that a bookdescribing the project results and vari-ous aspects of the research contentshould be published to give more visi-bility to the project outcomes. Theparticipants agreed on a general con-tent and structure of the publication.The publication has been finalizedand published. In particular, it exam-ines how research should be translat-ed into practice in terms of develop-ing guidelines, formulating recom-mendations for policy-making and forconservation and management plans,and developing sustainable alterna-tives for the FGR use. Visits weremade to sites including the communi-ties of Chiuquilihuin and Tromen.

● better understanding and quantifi-cation of the impact of changes inAraucaria genetic diversity on thelivelihoods of local communities;

● detection of potential adaptive treegenetic variation;

● development of guidelines for for-est restoration;

● improvements in the current forestconservation policies in close align-ment with the provisions of theConvention on International Tradein Endangered Species of WildFauna and Flora (CITES).

The following partners were activelyinvolved in carrying out researchactivities in the region: Brazilian Agriculture Ministry (EMBRAPA) Universidade Federal do Paraná Universidade de São Paulo National Institute for Agriculture andTechnology for Argentina (INTA)Universidad Nacional de Misiones Center for International ForestryResearch (CIFOR)

FFIINNAALL PPRROOJJEECCTT WWOORRKKSSHHOOPP

The final workshop of the BMZ-funded project on conservation inArgentina and Brazil was held in S.Carlos de Bariloche, Argentina, from28 April to 2 May 2003. The objectiveof the workshop was to bring togeth-er all partners and stakeholders in

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the project to: (i) share research find-ings and lessons learned from thedifferent sites; (ii) find ways to trans-late research findings into practicalrecommendations; and (iii) to devel-op strategies to increase publicawareness about the project’s out-comes and approach. It was also anopportunity for all project partici-pants to learn more about projectresults, particularly from disciplinesand study sites with which they wereless familiar. The project provided a good oppor-tunity to gain a holistic view of dif-ferent ecosystems, linking variousdisciplines, and focusing on issuesoutside forest ecosystems but withconsiderable impact on the humanand environmental systems, particu-larly on FGR.One of the objectives of the projectwas to extract some common elementsacross the various sites and use themfor a comparative analysis. It wasstressed that the historical backgroundand the policy framework in each sitewere important to understandingtrends in land use and the use of nat-ural resources. It was also noted thatthe historical background was impor-tant to providing an understanding ofhow anthropic pressure had modifiedgenetic diversity. The historical back-ground also helped in the interpreta-tion of the current distribution and

COMPLEMENTARY CONSERVATION STRATEGIES

Participants at the final project workshop in S. Carlos de Bariloche (Argentina)

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in Araucaria forest ecosystems; prac-tices for natural resources manage-ment by the indigenous communitiesof Mapuche; the impact of seed col-lection and livestock grazing on for-est regeneration; temporal patterns ofAraucaria seed production in differentregions of the Araucaria range inArgentina, in relation to precipitationpatterns and degree of fragmentation;and seed predation. The model alsoincorporated information on thegenetic characterization of Araucariapopulations. Preliminary simulations of theAraucaria forest ecosystem function-ing, using STELLA modelling envi-ronment, revealed the main linkagesbetween socioeconomic, ecologicaland genetic factors and the directionof positive and negative feedbackbetween the variables identified tosimulate the system’s behaviour.Preliminary thoughts were formulat-ed with regard to the structure of thevarious interrelations between thehuman factor and environment, witha specific focus on Araucaria’s regener-ation and genetic diversity in the stud-ied systems.A series of main linkages were identi-fied between forest genetic diversityand other variables of the system:● forest tree species genetic diversity

is fundamental to securingresilience;

● forest tree species have key impor-tance for the livelihoods of localcommunities;

● FGR management has an impact ongenetic diversity (at the ecosystemlevel and within species).

The final outcome of the exercise wasa draft model integrating informationfrom different disciplines, specifical-ly: forest tree species ecology, repro-ductive biology, genetics, and socioe-conomics. The model is structured ina way to enable a comparison ofalternative management options withregard to their impact on FGR, andallows identification of acceptable orsustainable levels of extraction of tim-ber and non-timber forest products(NTFPs). The recommendation wasmade that the tool be made easilyaccessible for adoption and applica-

fgr researchfgr researchHIGHLIGHTS

MMOODDEELLLLIINNGG FFOORR FFGGRR CCOONNSSEERRVVAATTIIOONN

A modelling exercise within theframework of the BMZ-funded pro-ject was held at IPGRI headquartersin Rome on 29–30 October 2003. Thisexercise marked a conclusive stepwithin the research activities of theproject. It focused on studying theimpact of human activities on FGR indifferent forest ecosystems inArgentina and Brazil. The workshopbrought together project participantsfrom Argentina and Brazil and mod-elling experts from various institu-tions worldwide.In four years of research activities incollaboration with research institu-tions in Argentina and Brazil, datawere gathered on some key speciesselected from different ecosystems(Amazon forest, Mata Atlantica,Araucaria araucana forests, Araucariaangustifolia forests).The Araucaria araucana forest ecosys-tem was chosen as the subject of themodel exercise, in view of its lowerlevel of diversity compared withtropical forests, and taking into con-sideration the key role these forestsecosystems have for local livelihoods. The main objectives of the workshopwere to: (i) define suitable ways ofrepresenting the functioning ofAraucaria ecosystems through model-ling; (ii) perform a simulation of theimpact of use of forest resources ongenetic diversity, through the model-ling of patterns and processes bywhich biological diversity is main-tained and used (from genes toecosystems); and (iii) develop a solidmodelling methodology, whichshould be suitable for simulating bio-logical processes and socioeconomicdynamics with reference to forestecosystems, and one that would alsoserve as a guide to identification ofoptimal forest management optionsin different environmental, social con-texts and spatial scales.The Araucaria araucana modelling wasbased on the findings generated bythe research carried out on humanimpact on Araucaria forest ecosys-tems. Specific information usedincluded: maps of Araucaria distribu-tion, and environmental degradation

tion to practical cases, with the objec-tive of identifying sustainable prac-tices in FGR management. The exist-ing criteria and indicators of sustain-able forest management were takeninto account. In the model-design phase, opinionswere expressed on how to include thehuman component in the model. Oneview was to make the human compo-nent an external factor influencingthe system’s behaviour. In this case,the influence of forest user groupswould be expressed by various man-agement options giving rise to differ-ent scenarios. Another view was tomake the human component part ofthe system itself; a component thatchanges with the system andresponds to the changes in other vari-ables, through feedback mechanisms.Furthermore, suggestions on how toincorporate genetic diversity into abroad model were included. One sug-gestion was to have a large model,inclusive of all processes (i.e. showinghow genetic diversity contributes toresilience in a species and thereforehas an ultimate impact on liveli-hoods, which is related to geneticdiversity through species manage-ment). Another suggestion was totake as an assumption the value ofgenetic diversity, simply showing theconsequences of human impact ongenetic diversity.At the end of the day, the variouscharacteristics for a suitable model-ling tool to be used in the decision-making process associated with FGRmanagement were defined. Majorcomponents of the model were iden-tified and suggestions were made onthe most appropriate modelling envi-ronment to be used in running themodel. A new project proposal thatfocused on improvements to themodel was also discussed.

For further information, please contact: Dr Barbara Vinceti, IPGRI HQ(bvinceti@cgiar.org), Dr Weber Amaral,IPGRI HQ (wamaral@cgiar.org), or Dr Leonardo Gallo, National Institutefor Agriculture and Technology forArgentina (INTA), Argentina (Lgallo@bariloche.inta.gov.ar)

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COMPLEMENTARY CONSERVATION STRATEGIES

For years in Tanzania and in manyother countries in tropical Africa,there have been plans to plant

fast-growing exotic trees to meet thegrowing demand for timber and oth-er wood and non-wood forest prod-ucts. Indigenous tree species weregiven a low priority in these plantingprogrammes owing to insufficientinformation on their silviculture,especially seed handling. This was aconsequence of insufficient researchon indigenous trees in terms ofreproductive biology and silviculture.In the past decade, there has beengrowing public awareness of thediverse values of indigenous trees,coupled with increased planting ofindigenous trees (particularly but notexclusively on-farm). As these treesare propagated mainly from seeds,there has been a greater emphasis onthe rapid expansion of seed produc-tion. Now, with the change in attitudeto indigenous trees, there is a need foran in-depth understanding of theirseed biology. Therefore, scientificefforts should focus on this aspect inorder to contribute to indigenous treeplanting programmes as well as gener-ate information that could be useful tothe management of all tree germplasm.This study focuses on three species:Uapaca kirkiana, Sorindeia madagascarien-sis and Bridelia micrantha. They werechosen for several reasons, including: ● they are indigenous to Tanzania

and many other countries in Africa,

hence, they are familiar to the peo-ple in the region;

● they are economically and sociallyimportant not only to local commu-nities in Tanzania but also to com-munities in many countries in sub-Saharan Africa;

● the species are propagated throughseed, which is produced in suffi-cient quantities every year,

● their seeds are not dormant and cangerminate readily under favourableconditions without any pre-treatment.

The seeds of these trees are thoughtto be recalcitrant and do not storewell, losing viability before the fol-lowing fruiting season. For suchtrees, even a small improvement inthe maintenance of viability means asignificant step towards commercialproduction and supply of valuabletree seed as well as contributing tomore effective genetic conservation.During the plant life cycle, seeddevelopment and storability are themost critical stages for the speciessurvival, especially if the species is tobe domesticated. Thus, this studywas an attempt to understand theseed biology and, in particular, todetermine and improve seed viabilityretention in order to enable their long-term conservation. The investigationsincluded: fruit and seed developmentstudies; determination of chemicalcomposition of seeds; post-harvestphysiology; and seed storability. Germination tests revealed that U.kirkiana and S. madagascariensis seedsgerminate better with endocarpsremoved than when they are leftintact. However, B. micrantha seedsgerminated well on all media tested,regardless of endocarp removal.Germination of embryonic axes washigh on all media for all three species.It is recommended that the endocarpin U. kirkiana and S. madagascariensisseeds be removed in order to enhancegermination. The most appropriate

germination media for seeds is Perliteand MS or WPM media for axes.The moisture content (MC) of theseed components (viz. seed coat, en-dosperm, cotyledons, and embryonicaxes) was determined gravimetrical-ly, using four replicates of ten compo-nents. U. Kirkiana endosperm had thehighest MC, followed by embryonicaxis and cotyledons. The seed coathad the lowest MC. It is apparent thatthe relatively high MC of the wholeseed is contributed mainly by the en-dosperm (at 37% of the entire seedweight). Mature seeds of S. madagas-cariensis have no endosperm. Assessment of the fungal status ofseeds of the three species was carriedout, and responses to various anti-fungal treatments prior to storagewere performed. The aim was to identi-fy, locate and isolate fungi from seedsof the tree species and to developfungicide treatments for the seedsthat could be applicable for extendingtheir life by the traditional wet stor-age technique. A number of differentsaprophytic and pathogenic fungiwere detected from the entire seed aswell as from components (organs) offreshly harvested seeds. Their level ofinfection varied from 0 to 10%. Mostof the fungi were located in associa-tion with the cotyledons. Preliminaryobservations suggested that the com-position of the mycoflora changedduring hydrated storage of the seeds.

For further information, please contact:H.M. Msanga, National Tree Seed Centre,Tanzania, or Prof P. Berjak, University ofKwaZulu-Natal (berjak@biology.und.ac.za)

Seed biology of Uapaca kirkiana,Sorindeia madagascariensis andBridelia micrantha

Uapaca kirkiana (Morogoro arboretum, Tanzania)

H.M

. Msa

nga

Bridelia micrantha (Morogoro arboretum, Tanzania)

H.M

. Msa

nga

The destruction of tropical forestsis widely acknowledged as oneof Earth’s most serious environ-

mental problems. The consequencesof this ongoing environmental disas-ter have been well documented. Theyinclude degraded water catchments,biodiversity loss and worsening ruralpoverty. The seasonally dry forests ofSoutheast Asia’s highlands are partic-ularly at risk. Despite levels of biodi-versity that often match those ofmany tropical rain forests, the season-ally dry tropical forests of SoutheastAsia’s monsoonal belt are thought tobe more endangered than equatorialrainforests. In response to this prob-lem, several countries in the regionhave banned or restricted commerciallogging in the remaining areas of pri-mary forest and added former log-ging concessions to their alreadyextensive protected areas systems.The problem is that even these so-called ‘protected’ forests are often toodegraded to meet the need for healthynatural forest that is capable of sup-porting viable populations of wildlife.It is becoming increasingly apparentthat attempts to protect the remainingforest are not enough. In order to saveSoutheast Asia’s tropical forests,destruction must not merely be haltedbut actually reversed. The restoration of highland forests isurgently needed across the region inorder to ensure a sustainable futurefor both wildlife and local people andto fulfil national policies and interna-tional commitments to maintainingthe diversity of life on our planet.Ecological restoration is rapidlybecoming an important tool in con-servation biology to conserve biodi-versity, restore environmental ser-vices (e.g. water supply and biologi-cal control) and provide benefits forpeople (e.g. food, fuelwood and med-icinal plants). The WWF and IUCN

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have proposed the all-encompassingconcept of ‘forest landscape restora-tion’, which aims to re-establish eco-logical integrity and enhance humanwell-being in degraded forest land-scapes. In order to be successful, suchan approach requires an effective tech-nique to rapidly restore forest ecosys-tems to degraded areas.In response to these issues, the ForestRestoration Research Unit (FORRU) ofnorthern Thailand’s Chiang MaiUniversity has been working withHorticulture Research International(HRI) of the United Kingdom. TheFORRU has been adapting the ‘frame-work species method’ in order torestore seasonally dry forests todegraded watershed sites in the moun-tains of northern Thailand. Thismethod was first conceived in the wettropical lowland rainforest ofQueensland, Australia (Goosem andTucker 1995) and subsequently adapt-ed to the seasonally dry tropical forestsof northern Thailand. The basic struc-ture and functioning of forest ecosys-tems are re-established rapidly byplanting mixtures of 20–30 carefullyselected native forest tree species (bothpioneer and climax simultaneously).Subsequently, biodiversity is restoredby the planted trees attracting seed-dispersing animals into planted sites.Therefore, the essential characteristics

of framework tree species are: highfield performance (survival andgrowth rate) in degraded sites; dense,spreading crowns that shade outherbaceous weeds; and provision ofresources that attract seed-dispersingwildlife (e.g. fruits, nectar, and nest-ing sites) at an early age. In areas sus-ceptible to wildfires during the dryseason, an additional consideration isresistance to burning or recoveryafter fire, such as coppicing ability.Framework species should also beeasy to propagate in nurseries by localpeople with simple technologies. Theyshould have: reliable seed availability;preferably rapid and synchronous ger-mination; and rapid growth ofseedlings to a plantable size (50–60cm) in less than a year. High-qualityseedlings are important as they havethe best chance of surviving in hostiledeforested environments. Consequently,it is essential that good silviculturalpractices are adopted. Selecting candidate framework speciesfor FORRU’s field trials requiredextensive background studies.Germination trials and monitoring ofearly seedling growth were carried outon 400 tree species indigenous to DoiSuthep-Pui National Park (DSPNP). Adetailed study was carried out on treeflowering and fruiting phenology. Itinvolved 100 tree species with descrip-

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ConservingThailand’sforest geneticresources

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An individual of Prunus cerasoides, that reached 4 m of height in 11 months, thanks to improvementsin the selection of seed trees, propagation methods and silvicultural treatments (Northern Thailand)

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COMPLEMENTARY CONSERVATION STRATEGIES

tions, drawings and photographs of thefruits and seedlings of potential frame-work species. A herbarium collection ofdried seedling specimens was estab-lished, along with computer databasesof seed, fruit and seedling morphology.Germination was tested and seedlingperformance was monitored in thenursery and after planting out indegraded areas. This enabled compila-tion of species production schedules. DSPNP is itself a location of recognizedconservation importance, owing to itshigh diversity of tree species. Withmore than 600 tree species suited to awide range of soil and climate condi-tions, DSPNP could provide a valuableseed source for forest restoration pro-jects outside the park.Planting trials in 1995–97 enabled iden-tification of some species likely toperform well in degraded sites.Without such basic background infor-mation, it would have been verydifficult to make sensible selections ofcandidate framework species for moreextensive field trials. Based on allthese studies, framework specieshave been planted in field plots eachyear since 1997 in partnership withHmong hill-tribe community resi-dents within DSPNP. FORRU helpedthe villagers to establish their owncommunity tree nursery in order totest the practicability of the new nurs-ery methods in a village environment.The planting trials were designed toprovide a quantitative assessment ofthe degree to which various treespecies meet framework species crite-ria. The trials helped to establish appro-priate standards for the selection of treespecies for forest restoration. Canopyclosure can now be achieved within 2–3years after planting. Weeds have largelybeen replaced with a carpet of leaf litter.Wild pigs, deer and other wildlife havebeen observed in the planted sites.The Convention on Biological Diversityemphasizes the importance of main-taining intraspecific genetic diversityand evolutionary potential.Consequently, adaptability and themaintenance of a broad genetic basemust be ensured when undertaking atree-planting programme. Geneticvariation in a founding population iscritical, particularly where restored

areas are far from pollen sources.Framework species planted indegraded areas will need to be able toadapt to the ‘new’ environment of therestoration plots. They are also likelyto become sources of seed for otherdegraded areas, both through naturaldispersal locally, and through seedcollection by practitioners for artifi-cial planting. Adaptive traits monitored included:survival in degraded plots, growthrates and canopy width. Adaptivetraits provide trees with the ability toadapt to changes in their environ-ment through natural selection.Populations with little genetic varia-tion are more vulnerable to climatechange, habitat change (planting indegraded areas), pests and disease. Molecular traits are very useful forstudying genetic diversity. They arealso powerful tools in the study ofgene flow, i.e. the transfer of geneswithin and between populations bypollen and seed. Prunus cerasoides is animportant framework tree species. Itsgenetic diversity was examined withinand between three national parks (DoiSuthep-Pui, Doi Inthanon and DoiAng Khang) in northern Thailand usingpublished microsatellite primersdeveloped for peach, sweet cherryand sour cherry (Pakkad et al. 2004).The levels of heterozygosity detectedfor each site over all loci indicated thateach collection of parent seed treesexhibited a high level of genetic varia-tion. This suggested that, to maintaingenetic diversity, seed should be sam-pled from a much larger number oftrees than is currently practised. Whilethe majority of genetic diversity wascontained within sites, they shouldalso be considered as genetically dis-tinct. However, some important ques-tions were not addressed in this study.In particular, no gene-flow study wasconducted to determine the extent ofpollen exchange between the intactforest and restoration plots. Such geneflow could re-introduce genetic diver-sity into restored forest tree popula-tions. Consequently, a jointIPGRI–FORRU collaborative projectwas set up to begin to address theseissues by studying: the genetic diversi-ty of P. cerasoides within an area of

restoration plots; and gene flowbetween intact forest and the restora-tion plots. Pollinators and seed-dis-persing wildlife species were alsoidentified. This project is significantbecause it will provide information ongene flow of this species for the firsttime. This knowledge will be invalu-able for planning seed collectingstrategies for future restoration planti-ng, helping to ensure the conservationof genetic resources of P. cerasoides.

For further information, please contactDr David Blakesley, Wildlife Landscapes,UK (David.Blakesley@btinternet.com), orDr Greuk Pakkad, Forest RestorationResearch Unit (FORRU), Department ofBiology, Faculty of Science, Chiang MaiUniversity, Thailand (greukp@yahoo.com)

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Forest restoration in Northern Thailand: above an area deforested, degraded and burnt(1998); below the same site six years after planting with 30 different framework species (2004)

LITERATURE CITED

Goosem, S. and N.Tucker. 1995. Repairing theRainforest. Cassowary Publications, Cairns,Australia.

Pakkad, G., C. James, F.Torre, S. Elliott and D.Blakesley. 2004. Genetic variation of Prunuscerasoides D. Don, framework tree species innorthern Thailand. New For 27:189–200

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Bamboo and rattan activities werecontinued in 2003 to addressspecific needs of countries in the

Asia, Pacific and Oceania Region, fol-lowing strategies developed for thesetwo non-timber forest products(NTFPs) of great economic, social andcultural importance. During the year,one project each on bamboo and rat-tan was completed on species map-ping and patterns of genetic diversityin wild populations. Three other suchstudies on bamboo were done in2004. Six new studies on priorityspecies of bamboo and rattan wereinitiated with partners in five coun-tries, namely: India, Indonesia,Malaysia, Nepal and Vietnam. Thesestudies focus on genetic diversityaspects, impacts of managementpractices, and the effectiveness ofconservation areas. In addition,IPGRI staff participated in theAsia–Pacific regional workshop“Forests for Poverty Reduction: CanCommunity Forestry Make Money?”in Beijing on 1–3 September 2003. Theworkshop also discussed the contri-bution of bamboo as a source ofincome and livelihoods for localcommunities. IPGRI also attendedthe “International Conference onBamboo Resource Utilization andProcessing Technology” in Yiyang,China, on 8–10 September 2003,where the importance of bamboo as aresource for industrial use as well asfor local communities was demon-strated. The sustainable management

Conservation ofgenetic resources of NTFP species

of genetic diversity in extraction areaswas highlighted in IPGRI’s paper tothe meeting. Closer collaboration wasforged with the International Networkon Bamboo and Rattan (INBAR), anda workshop on bamboo hybridizationand flowering will be one of the initia-tives to be developed in the comingyear. This collaborative effort will con-tinue to be strengthened, particularlyregarding information sharing anddevelopment of criteria and indicatorsfor sustainable management of thesespecies. In addition, advice and scien-tific services have been provided inresponse to numerous enquiries fromthe public and researchers on differentaspects of bamboo and rattan geneticresources. Further details on researchactivities on bamboo and rattan are setout below.

BBAAMMBBOOOO

The project “An ex situ collection ofbamboo for national conservation

and research” was completed suc-cessfully with IPGRI’s Malaysianpartner. With an ex situ collection con-sisting of 67 plants that include 34species in 7 genera, the Bambusetumis already the largest in the countryand will contribute to a better under-standing of species biology, growthrates and management practices. Thehost institution, with staff memberswho are already familiar with the roleand functions of living referencematerial, will continue adding to thecollection. Key species in the collec-tion include: (i) very rare taxa such asSchizostachyum terminale and S.lengguanii; (ii) a probable naturalhybrid between Dendrocalamus andGigantochloa recognized during a fieldsurvey; and (iii) two unnamedspecies of Gigantochloa not previouslyrecorded. A publication on the diversi-ty of bamboo was completed in 2004.A study is underway on speciesdiversity and ex situ conservation ofsome bamboos in Vietnam. Its aim isto solve taxonomic problems of com-mon and unknown species. This pro-ject will serve as a basis for the imple-mentation of conservation and man-agement practices of candidatespecies.

RRAATTTTAANN

The study on the population demo-graphic status and tgenetic variationof Calamus manan, an economicallyvaluable rattan, has been completedin Indonesia. The results have shownthe possible use of isozymes todistinguish the genetic variation ofC. manan in Sumatra. There is also anindication of correlation between thestage of seedling growth and isozyme

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Bambooand rattan

Bambusa farinaceae growing in the ex situcollection of the Rimba Ilmu Botanic Garden,Malaya University.

L.T.

Ho

ng

fgr research 13

patterns. This could have practicalimplications for assessing the growthof seedlings. The diversity measuredby isozyme analysis and groupedinto dendrograms has shown a seri-ous reduction in variation withinpopulations in the study site. Hence,urgent efforts have to be made to con-serve this species. A study on gap analysis of protectedareas in the Western Ghats, India, for

conservation of bamboo and rattanresources has been initiated with apartner from India. This studyaddresses the conservation status ofbamboo and rattan in the WesternGhats. It also examines the extent towhich the ‘protected areas’ in theWestern Ghats are able to meet theconservation requirements of thesetwo species for the sustainable liveli-hood of the local community. A publi-

cation on the status of bamboo andrattan resources in the Western Ghatswas compiled in 2004.

For further information, please contact:Hong Lay Tong, IPGRI Asia, Pacific andOceania (HongLT@ipgri-apo.cgiar.org),or Dr Ramanatha Rao, IPGRI Asia,Pacific and Oceania (Vrao@ipgri-apo.cgiar.org)

CONSERVATION OF FGR IN NTFP SPECIES

Aworkshop on the conservationof genetic resources of non-timber forest products (NTFPs)

in Ethiopia was held in Addis Ababaon 5–6 April 2004. The workshop wasorganized by IPGRI in collaborationwith the Ethiopian AgriculturalResearch Organization (EARO). Itbrought together more than 32 partic-ipants from various research institu-tions and universities in the country.This workshop arose out of a missionto Ethiopia by one of the IPGRI FGRstaff in February 2003. The purpose ofthe visit was to solicit partner supportfor our proposed work on the restora-tion of dry forest ecosystems and onexpanding the scope of IPGRI’s workon NTFPs. One of the major out-comes of this visit was the need tobring together stakeholders inEthiopia to discuss the state of con-servation and management of geneticresources of NTFP species in Ethiopiaand to identify potential areas ofintervention. Arrangements weremade to hold this meeting early in2004. It was anticipated that theworkshop would also be an entrypoint for future collaborationbetween IPGRI and partners inEthiopia to promote the conservationand sustainable use of forest geneticresources (FGR) in the country. Theoutcomes of the workshop wereexpected to contribute to the develop-ment of a broader work programmeon the restoration of dry forest

Workshop on conservation of geneticresources of NTFP species in Ethiopia

W. T

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Boswellia papyrifera tree (Ethiopia).

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W. T

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Frankincense collected from Boswellia papyrifera (Ethiopia)

ecosystems not only in Ethiopia butalso in the entire sub-Saharan region.More than ten papers on variousaspects of NTFPs in Ethiopia werepresented during the two days,including those discussing individualNTFP species and those covering awhole range of NTFP species from aparticular region in the country.A major outcome of the workshopwas the recognition of the need topromote the conservation of geneticresources of the major NTFP species,particularly those threatened by over-exploitation and habitat loss, as wellas to make full use of those speciesthat are valuable but receive littleattention. The best example given inthis second category was bamboo(Arundinaria alpina), which hasnumerous potential uses but is cur-rently used for fuelwood and fencing,and to a limited extent as a source offood-bamboo shoots for some com-munities. Another species identifiedas being in need of immediate inter-vention was Boswellia papyrifera,which is a source of locally and inter-nationally valuable frankincense.The workshop recommended moreresearch into the reproductive biolo-gy of the major NTFP species to pro-vide information useful for their con-servation and domestication. It alsorecommended: collaboration and net-working between the variousEthiopian institutions engaged inNTFP research and development; dis-semination of information relating tothe conservation and use of NTFPs toa wide range of stakeholders in thecountry; and promotion of small-scaleenterprises based on NTFPs.The participants called for a follow-upof the recommendations of the meetinginto some concrete actions in the coun-try and a regular holding of such meet-ings to share experience among thevarious stakeholders. It was also sug-gested that future meetings shouldhave adequate coverage of the policyand legal framework and institutionalissues relating to genetic conservationand use of NTFP species. The follow-ing Ethiopian institutions were repre-sented at the workshop:● Ethiopian Agricultural Research

Centers (including the Forestry;

Research Center, Pawe ResearchCenter, Essential Oils ResearchCenter, Holetta Research Center,and Melkasa Research Center);

● Oromiya Region AgriculturalResearch Institute (Sinana ResearchCenter);

● Wondo Genet College of Forestry(Debub University);

● Mekele University;● Addis Ababa University (Biology

Department);● Institute of Biodiversity

Conservation;

● ZEF–COCE Project;● Amhara Region Agricultural

Research Institute;● Jimma Agricultural Research

Center (EARO).

For further information, please contact:Wubalem Tadesse, Forestry ResearchCentre, Ethiopian Agricultural ResearchOrganization (ntsp@telecom.net.et orwubalemt@yahoo.com), or MichaelMbogga, IPGRI Sub-Saharan Africa(Mmbogga@icraf.cgiar.org)

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CAPACITY BUILDING

Capacity building forFGR conservationIPGRI sponsors two fellowship programmes: the Abdou Salam Ouédraogo Fellowship and the Vavilov–Frankel Fellowship

Abdou Salam OuédraogoFellowship

The Abdou Salam OuédraogoFellowship was created to hon-our the memory and celebrate

the contribution of the late Dr AbdouSalam Ouédraogo to the conservationand use of plant genetic resources. DrOuédraogo led IPGRI’s forestry pro-gramme from 1993 to 1999. He left anindelible mark on IPGRI and theworld forestry community as awhole. At the time of his death in aplane crash in January 2000 inAbidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, he wasexploring ways to bring young scien-tists from Africa into the internationalresearch environment. His ideas liveon in the Abdou Salam OuédraogoFellowship scheme. The schemeoffers support for research on theconservation and use of forest geneticresources (FGR) and involves linkingyoung African scientists with interna-tional research institutions in forestryand natural resources management.The Abdou Salam OuédraogoFellowship is funded by donationsfrom Dr Ouédraogo’s friends, col-leagues and institutional collabora-tors. Donations from other sourcesare matched by a donation from IPGRI.

For details, visit the IPGRI Web sitewww.ipgri.cgiar.org under Training.

RREECCEENNTT AABBDDOOUU SSAALLAAMM

OOUUÉÉDDRRAAOOGGOO FFEELLLLOOWWSSHHIIPP

RREESSEEAARRCCHH

IIMMPPAACCTT OOFF DDOOMMEESSTTIICCAATTIIOONN OONNGGEENNEETTIICC DDIIVVEERRSSIITTYY OOFF UUAAPPAACCAA

KKIIRRKKIIAANNAA IINN MMAALLAAWWII

William Chrispo Hamisy (Tanzania)2003Uapaca kirkiana Kuell. Arg (wildloquat) is one of the species in theEuphorbia (Euphorbiaceae) family.The genus Uapaca contains approxi-mately 60 species of which 49 arerestricted to mainland Africa with therest occurring in Madagascar(Thiselton-Dyer 1913). U. kirkiana is asoutheast African fruit tree found inAngola, Burundi, DemocraticRepublic of Congo, Malawi,Mozambique, Tanzania, Zambia andZimbabwe. The species occurs onwell-drained, infertile and acidic soilsat altitudes of 500–2000 m in frost-free areas, subject to a dry season last-ing 5–7 months with unimodal annu-al rainfall of 500–1400 mm (Ngulubeet al. 1995).U. kirkiana is among the multipurposetree species of the miombo wood-lands. It is reported as providing edi-ble fruits, fuelwood, building materi-als, medicines and shade to the ruralcommunities in its growing areas(Mbuya et al. 1994; Mwamba et al.1992). Its fruits can be eaten raw,made into jam and sweetmeats orused to produce a refreshing drinkand a variety of wines (Mwamba

1989). The fruits contain: 27.4% drymatter, 86.5% total carbohydrates,8.4% fibre, 1.1% fat, 8% crude protein,with vitamin C contents of 16.8mg/100 g fresh weight (Saka andMsonthi 1994). Because of the extend-ed period of fruit ripening throughthe dry season, U. kirkiana serves asan important famine food reserve. Itranked first in a fruit-tree priority set-ting exercise conducted in Malawi.Furthermore, the development of cot-tage industries in Malawi andZambia has opened an attractive mar-ket for the fruits. Large quantities arenow required to sustain these indus-tries as well as meet the growingdemand for whole fruits in rural andcity markets (Ngulube et al. 1997).Throughout its natural range, thefruits of U. kirkiana are collected fromthe wild. As a result, several organi-zations in southern Africa havebegun programmes to domesticateindigenous fruit trees of the miombowoodlands. This process involvesselection, characterization, produc-tion and adoption of desirable treegermplasm in a process that involvesfarmers directly in research.Extensive germplasm collection wasmade from a number of countriesbetween 1995 and 1997, and popula-tions are currently being evaluated inmultilocation field trials to identifysuperior material. Furthermore, theInternational Center for Research inAgroforestry (ICRAF) – SouthernAfrican Region Programme (Malawioffice) has initiated the domesticationprocess of U. Kirkiana. This involvesselection of superior mother treesthrough participatory rural appraisal(PRA) in four sites at which farmersidentified superior trees based on cri-teria such as fruit sweetness, bearingsand size. Following the PRA, seedswere collected from the selected

fgr researchfgr researchHIGHLIGHTS

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● identified mother trees from thetwo populations (25 trees fromDedza and 15 trees from Malosa);

● 100 progenies raised from seedscollected from four mother trees inDedza and Malosa (25 progeniesfrom each mother tree).

For further information, please contact:William Chrispo Hamisy(chiutila66@yahoo.co.uk), or MikkelGrum, IPGRI Sub-Saharan Africa(mailto:m.grum@cgiar.org)

mother trees and planted in the nurs-ery at Makoka Research Station. Theseedlings provide materials (root-stock) for grafting.Although plant selection has long beenused as an important step towardsproduction of high-value products ofuniform quality, it results in a loss ofgenetic diversity of the selected mate-rials. Therefore, this study was initiat-ed with the aim of assessing the antici-pated diversity loss resulting from theselection process. The results will helpto improve sampling techniques so asto optimize both qualitative and quan-titative outputs including geneticdiversity in future domestication exer-cises for this species. Dedza and Malosa are among the fourpopulations selected by the ICRAFregional office in Malawi for use in thedomestication programme, the otherpopulations being Phalombe andMzimba. Between December 2003 andJanuary 2004, trips were made toMalawi to collect leaf samples for DNAanalysis. Samples were collected from190 individual U. kirkiana trees andprogenies from the two populations.After collection, the leaves were driedusing self-indicating silica gel in snap-top plastic bags, then transported toICRAF in Nairobi where they havebeen stored at -20 °C. DNA extractionwas commenced using mini-CTAB,and the analysis was carried out usingrandom amplified polymorphic DNA(RAPD). The sample consisted of:● random sample involving both

male and female U. kirkiana treesfrom the wild populations in Dedzaand Malosa (25 trees from eachpopulation);

LITERATURE CITED

Mbuya, L.P., H.P. Msanga, C.K. Ruffo, A. Birnieand B.Tengnas. 1994. Useful Trees and Shrubsfor Tanzania, identification, propagation andmanagement for agricultural and pastoralcommunities. RSCU/SIDA.

Mwamba. C.K. 1989. Natural variation infruits of Uapaca kirkiana in Zambia. For EcolMan 26:299–303.

Mwamba, C.K., Y. Zgambo and G. Chongo.1992. Effect of seedling on post-plantinggrowth of Uapaca kirkianaMuel.Arg. S Afr For J 116:35–40.

Ngulube, M.R., J.B. Hall and J.A. Maghemebe.1995. Ecology of a miombo fruit tree: Uapacakirkiana(Euphorbiaceae). For Ecol Man 77:107–111.

Ngulube, M.R., J.B. Hall and J.A. Maghemebe.1997. Fruit, seed and seedling variation inUapaca kirkiana fromnatural populations inMalawi. For Ecol Man 98:209–219.

Saka, J.D.K. and J.D. Msonthi. 1994.Nutritional value of sixteen edible wild fruitsgrowing in Malawi. For Ecol Man 64:245–248.

Thiselton-Dyer, W.T. 1913. Flora of TropicalAfrica Vol.VI – Section 1. L. Reeve & Co, UK.

EENNHHAANNCCIINNGG TTHHEE CCOONNSSEERRVVAATTIIOONN

AANNDD UUTTIILLIIZZAATTIIOONN OOFF

MMEELLIIAA VVOOLLKKEENNSSIIII TTHHRROOUUGGHH

DDEEVVEELLOOPPMMEENNTT OOFF VVEEGGEETTAATTIIVVEE

PPRROOPPAAGGAATTIIOONN PPRROOTTOOCCOOLLSS

IINN KKEENNYYAA

Abwao Stephen Indieka (Kenya) 2004Abwao Stephen Indieka, who previ-ously worked as a research assistantat the biotechnology laboratory ofthe Kenya Forestry ResearchInstitute (KEFRI), is currently pursu-ing an MSc in biotechnology atKenyatta University. This workforms part of a larger KEFRI projectfunded by the International Servicefor the Acquisition of Agri-biotechApplications (ISAA) focusing ondomestication of M. volkensii. Theproject involves: the identificationand collecting of germplasm; and theplanning, designing and undertakingof propagation experiments (micro-propagation and macropropagation).M. volkensii is among the indigenoustree species that thrive in the aridand semi-arid lands (ASALs) ofKenya and is also popular amongfarmers. It is valued for timber, fuel-wood, termite-resistant poles andfodder, among other uses.Overexploitation and settlement inthe ASALs has led to loss and frag-mentation of natural populations ofthis species. Conservation andreplanting of M. volkensii has beenhampered by a lack of adequateplanting materials resulting from dif-ficulty in propagation through seed.This necessitates the development ofappropriate alternative mass-propa-gation techniques to alleviate theproblem. Clonal propagation usingmicropropagation and macropropa-gation techniques offers a viablealternative means as it has provedsuccessful with other woody speciessuch as Eucalyptus and Balanites spp. One of the main factors limiting con-servation and replanting of M.volkensii is seed dormancy (Teel1985). Much research has been con-ducted on breaking the dormancy(Milimo 1989a). However, propaga-tion through seed using methodssuggested in literature has so farproved generally cumbersome anddifficult to optimize. Existing vegeta-

Melia volkensii in a maize field (Kenya)

D. O

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fgr research 17

CAPACITY BUILDING

LITERATURE CITED

Denison, N.P. and D.R. Quaile. 1987. Theapplied clonal Eucalyptus program in Mondiforest. S Afr For J 142:60–66.

Ikemori, Y.K., R.M. Penchel and F.L.G.Bertolucci. 1994. Integrating biotechnologyinto eucalyptus breeding.

International symposium of wood biotech-nology. Tokyo University of Agriculture andTechnology,Tokyo.

Kidundo, M. 1997. Participatory technologydevelopment and nursery propagation ofMelia volkensii Gurke: A potential agro-forestry tree species for semi arid Kenya.MPhil. thesis, Univ.Wales, UK.

Milimo, P.B. 1989a. Preliminary studies on vege-tative propagation of Melia volkensii by cuttings.In Trees for sub-Saharan Africa. Proceedings ofa regional seminar held at the InternationalFoundation for Science, Nairobi, Kenya.

Milimo, P.B. 1989b. Collection, processing andgermination of Melia volkensii seeds. KEFRITechnical Note No. 1.

Teel,W. 1985.A pocket dictionary of trees andseeds in Kenya. Kenya Non-GovernmentalOrganizations, Nairobi, Kenya. 151 pp.

tive propagation methods describedby Kidundo (1997) and Milimo(1989b) are not easily applicable tomass propagation. Multiplication oftree species has enabled foresters todevelop and operate highly success-ful clonal forestry and breeding pro-grammes (Denison and Quaile, 1987;Ikemori et al., 1994). A combinationof micropropagation and macro-propagation techniques is especiallyimportant for tree species because oftheir complementarity. Micropropagation and macropropa-gation offer a rapid means of pro-ducing planting materials in massand can easily be applied to clonalmultiplication of M. volkensii.The major aim of the study is todevelop appropriate alternativepropagation methods with theemphasis on vegetative/clonal prop-agation protocols for M. volkensiiusing rejuvenated plant materials.The study will attempt to achieve thefollowing objectives: development ofin vitro multiplication and ex vitrorooting protocols for M. volkensii; amultiplication protocol using rejuve-nated leafy cuttings; and determin-ing optimum hormone levels (auxins

and cytokinins) for in vitro multipli-cation and rooting. In addition,efforts will also be made to comparein vitro performance variation in rela-tion to explants source (clonal varia-tions) and rooting performance, andsubsequent establishment of in vitromultiplied cuttings and field-sourcedmacrocuttings under mist propagatorconditions, together with determina-tion of clone (tree) on the rooting per-formance of macrocuttings.At least ten M. volkensii trees will beselected on different farms withinKitui District. Trees will be selectedon the basis of age (3–10 years old)and tree form (at least 4 m of straightbole and less branching). Results ofthis study are expected to benefitfarmers, forest departments, commu-nity-based organizations (CBOs) andnon-governmental organization(NGO) stakeholders involved in treeplanting, forestry and agroforestry inthe drylands of Eastern Africa.Conservation/reforestation/replanti-ng of M. volkensii will be expedited,hence, enabling sustainable and suffi-cient use of its products in ASALs,with spin-offs of rehabilitation andconservation in these zones.

Oriental beech (Fagus Orientalis) (northern Iran)

For further information, please contact:Abwao Stephen Indieka (Indiwa@yahoo.com)Kameswara Rao, IPGRI Sub-Saharan Africa (Krao@icraf.cgiar.org)

Vavilov–Frankel Fellowship

IPGRI established the Vavilov–Frankel Fellowship to commemoratethe contributions made to plant sci-

ence by Nikolai Ivanovich Vavilov ofRussia and Otto Frankel of Australia.The fellowships are intended to enableyoung scientists to carry out relevantand innovative research outside theircountries, thus contributing to theirown professional development and tothe ability of their countries to manageand conserve crop diversity.

RREECCEENNTT VVAAVVIILLOOVV––FFRRAANNKKEELL

FFEELLLLOOWWSSHHIIPP RREESSEEAARRCCHH

GGEENNEETTIICC DDIIVVEERRSSIITTYY AANNDD GGEENNEEFFLLOOWW IINN OORRIIEENNTTAALL BBEEEECCHH((FFAAGGUUSS OORRIIEENNTTAALLIISS LL..)) PPOOPPUULLAATTIIOONNSS IINN IIRRAANNParvin Salehi Shanjani, Research

Institute of Forests and Rangelands,Tehran, (Iran). 2003.Oriental beech forests are the mostvaluable forests in the Caspian zoneand an important source of timber forIran. They are distributed on thenorthern slopes of the AlborzMountains, at 500–2100 m above sealevel and form a belt 700 km long(Figure 1) These forests cover threeprovinces in Iran: Gilan, Mazandaranand Golestan. Pure and mixed F.orientalis forests comprise the mostimportant forest type, covering about17% of the total Hyrcanian forest areaand constituting about 25% of thecountry’s forests. The species exists in Mesophilousforest vegetation on the Caspian coastof Iran. Its floristic characteristics indi-

cate that the F. orientalis in this belt islinked with the European beech forests,particularly those in the Balkans.However, populations in the southern-most part of its extent in Iran showmuch more unique characteristics.Hyrcanian forests lie over an areawith very varied environmental con-

P. S

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fgr researchfgr researchHIGHLIGHTS

18 fgr research

ditions. For example, there is moreprecipitation in the west while theeast is drier experiencing longerdrought periods (Figure 2). In theeast, basic rocks predominatewhereas those underlying the westare more acidic in nature. All theseaspects have a bearing on the quanti-tative and qualitative genetic charac-ters of F. orientalis populations in Iran(as seen in the wide variation in mor-phological characteristics of thespecies). Average tree height in theeasternmost Gorgan region is muchhigher than that in Asalem furtherwest. In addition, Marvie Mohadjer(1976) found the Asalem region tohave the lowest percentage of forkedtrees and number of branches in thefirst 10 m of trunk.

Previous studies have revealed signif-icant allelic frequency differences andlow genetic differentiation in popula-tions of F. orientalis in Hyrcanianforests. The aim of this work was tocollect information to help in theestablishment of gene conservationresources within the F. orientalis rangein Iran. This work is also expected tocontribute to the development of agene conservation strategy for Iran,which is currently one of the priori-ties of the Iranian Forest Service.Dormant buds were collected from 13natural F. orientalis populations cover-ing a large part of its distributionrange. Care was taken to ensure opti-mum representation of the different F.orientalis populations. Nuclear andchloroplast simple sequence repeats

(SSRs) analysis was carried out on atleast 40 and 14 trees in each of thepopulations, respectively. In a secondphase, nuclear SSRs analysis was car-ried out on progenies of ten treesfrom each population to analyze themating systems and monitor geneflow within and between the stands.Results indicate considerable variationwithin and among populations. Tenhaplotypes were found, and almost allhaplotypic variation resides amongpopulations with a clear geographicdistribution of the genetic diversity ofF. orientalis in Iran.The mean observed heterozygosity(He) over all investigated loci rangedfrom 0.59 (Gorgan–1400 andSangdeh–1900) to 0.66 (Sangdeh–900),which does not show significant differ-ences. However, allelic richness showsmore important differences.Plots of pair-wise comparison of beechpopulations showed a very strong cor-relation between genetic diversity andgeographic distance, thus more distantpopulations are more differentiated.The same results were found by a two-dimensional graph using the ordina-tion scores of the principal coordinateanalysis based on Nei’s genetic dis-tances between investigated beechpopulations (Figure 3).The analysis of molecular variation(AMOVA) highlighted the moderatelevel of genetic differentiation withinpopulations (91.7%).Mean FST for all loci was 0.058, indi-cating a low level of genetic differen-tiation. The range of variation of thevalues of FST for each locus was alsolow. The mean FIS was low, indicatingthat within population structure(inbreeding) was not significant.However, some loci had high valuesof FIS, indicating deficiency or excessof heterozygotes. People use and manage Hyrcanianforests in a number of ways. Theyhave been managed under the shelter-wood system for more than 40 years,so that 914 000 ha (45% of theseforests) are currently managed bygovernmental, private sector andcooperative contractors in 392 dis-tricts. In the past decade, consider-able changes have been made in for-est-management and plant-selection

Figure 2. Mean annual temperature and precipitation in Hyrcanian forests

Figure 1. Distribution of studied regions

Mean annual temperature Precipitation

AsalemKheinud

Sanghed

NekaGorgan

fgr research 19

sent or potential socioeconomic valueand their conservation status. Manyfactors have been considered in theinvestigation of conservation status ofHyrcanian forests, including: ● past and present geographical dis-

tribution;● prevailing use patterns in the form

of logging and planting;● changing land-use patterns; popu-

lation growth;● infrastructure development;● distance to close settlements;● occurrence of the species in pro-

tected areas.

A geographical information system(GIS) has proved a valuable tool inthis process. The second step will be the establish-ment of a network of conservationpopulations for sampling purposesand to secure the genetic diversity ofthe target species. Knowledge of thedistribution of genetic variationwithin and between geographicregions is important in this process.Because biochemical and molecularstudies are expensive and time con-suming, genetic studies are rarelyavailable (Salehi Shanjani 2002). Theresults of this research on geneticdiversity and gene flow have pro-vided information on geographicpatterns of genetic diversity and keyfactors shaping diversity (gene flowand mating system). This informa-tion will be valuable for the identifi-cation of specific conservation

CAPACITY BUILDING

criteria as a result of the strengthen-ing of the ecosystem point of view.Even-aged stands have been changedinto uneven-aged high forests. Clearcutting in restoration areas at vastextents has been stopped. Spot cuttingin limited areas has attracted attentionand the harvest rate has been dimin-ished (Sagheb-Talebi et al. 2003). It has been proved that genetic compo-sition is influenced by the combinedeffect of different forces (human-manipulated, biotic and abiotic fac-tors). Poor management of the forestcan reduce the value of the geneticresources significantly. On the otherhand, forest management schemesincorporating genetic objectives cansecure the genetic resources for presentand future use (Namkoong et al. 1996).Comparisons of the genetic structure,woody plant biodiversity, and morpho-logical and silvicultural characteristics ofbeech in managed and unmanagedpopulations in Hyrcanian forests haveshown that selected silvicultural meth-ods in managed populations have influ-enced the morphological characteristicsof beech trees. Moreover, the geneticstructure and woody plant biodiversityof these populations have changeddramatically (Salehi Shanjani 2002). Because of the interest in geneticresources of Hyrcanian forests in Iran,the Iranian Forest Service is starting anassessment and conservation pro-gramme on these forests. As a firststep, it is identifying genetic resourcesat the species level based on their pre-

LITERATURE CITED

Marvie Mohadjer, M.R. 1976. Some quanti-tative characteristics of Iranian beechforests. Iran J Nat Res 34:77–97.

Namkoong, G., T. Boyle, H-R. Gregorius, H.Joly, O. Savolainen, W. Ratnam and A.Young.1996. Testing criteria and indicators forassessing the sustainability of forest manage-ment: genetic criteria and indicators. CIFORWorking Paper No. 10. Bogor, Indonesia.

Sagheb-Talebi, K., T. Asjedi and F. Yazdian.2003. Forests of Iran. IPGRI TechnicalPublication No. 339.

Salehi Shanjani, P. 2002 Genetic diversity ofFagus orientalis L. and its relationship withphysiological, biochemical, and morphologicalcharacteristic of beech forests in Iran. PhDthesis, Sci. Fac.,Teach.Train. Univ.Tehran, Iran.

Figure 3. Two-dimensional graph based on the ordination scores of the principal coordinate analysis

requirements or priorities. Typically,this will be at the population level inorder to identify the geographicaldistribution and number of popula-tions to be conserved and for selec-tion of specific populations to beincluded in the network of in situconservation stands.

For further information, please contact:Dr Parvin Salehi Shanjani, ResearchInstitute of Forests and Rangelands,Tehran (psalehi@rifr-ac.in), or Dr G.G.Vendramin, Istituto di Genetica Vegetale,Sezione di Firenze, Plant GeneticsInstitute, Florence Division. ConsiglioNazionale delle Ricerche, Florence, Italy(giovanni.vendramin@igv.cnr.it)

A-600

A-1200C-1300

S-900

G-600S-1400

N-900

N-1400 S-1900

K-600

K-600

C-1200

G-1400

G-1900

◆ ◆ ◆

◆◆

◆◆

◆◆

◆◆

◆

◆

fgr researchfgr researchHIGHLIGHTS

20 fgr research

EEFFFFEECCTT OOFF BBAARRKK AANNDD LLEEAAFFHHAARRVVEESSTTIINNGG OONN TTHHEE GGEENNEETTIICCDDIIVVEERRSSIITTYY OOFF KKHHAAYYAA SSPPEECCIIEESSIINN BBEENNIINNOrou G. Gaoue, Laboratoired’Ecologie Applique, Faculté deSciences Agronomiques, Universityd’Abomey-Calavi (Benin) 2004The full title of Gaoue’s study is:“Impact of bark and foliage harvest-ing by indigenous people on geneticdiversity of Khaya spp. in Benin, WestAfrica”. It will be carried out at theDepartment of Botany, University ofHawaii-Manoa, USA, where he is cur-rently pursuing a PhD.The study will look in detail at the statusof Khaya senegalensis and K. grandifoliola,two African mahoganies exploitedextensively in Benin. The IUCN RedData Book lists both species as vulner-able, and some stands have beenheavily exploited for generations.Heavy harvesting can affect the phys-iology and reproductive ability of thetree species, and this may have affect-ed the genetic structure and variationof the populations. The study intendsto use molecular techniques to mapthe genetic diversity of the trees inareas that have experienced differentlevels of bark and foliage harvest. Inthis way, it will discover whetherthere is a link between the harvestingpressure on a population and itswithin genetic diversity. In addition,questions relating to what extent treepopulations in protected areas repre-sent a richer sample of diversity thantrees elsewhere, and to whether plan-tations of Khaya contribute to the con-servation of genetic diversity will beanswered.

The specific objectives of the study are:● understand how genetic variation is

distributed within and amongKhaya spp. populations throughoutthe country, with special regard tothe impact of different indigenous(traditional healers and fulani) har-vesting intensities of bark andfoliage on the genetic diversityparameters;

● assess the relevance of the existingprotected areas (in situ) and thecontribution of Khaya spp. planta-tions (ex situ) established through-out the country, in terms of conser-vation of the genetic resources ofthese tree species in Benin.

Measurement of harvest and pruningpressure will use both indigenous-stakeholder and literature-basedmethods. An ethnoecological surveywill be conducted through the vil-lages in the natural range of the twostudied species. Its aim will be in orderto identify, with the local harvesters(traditional healers and fulani), thedifferent possible levels of bark andfoliage harvesting intensities (quanti-ty and frequency). The pruning pres-sure will be estimated through thepercentage of branches defoliatedand the percentage cover of theremaining foliage. The bark harvest-ing pressure will be measured by thepercentage of the total volume ofbark removed out of the total volumeof the stem bark. Genetic parameterswill be compared between seedlingsand sapling populations with differ-ent harvesting intensities in order toassess the impact of harvest on thegenetic diversity.The study is expected to:● generate a distribution map of the

genetic diversity within the Khayaspecies;

● identify Khaya spp. populationsoutside the protected areas thatneed to be part of the conservationnetwork (protected areas or as exsitu collections);

● identify the protected areas critical-ly important to capturing as large apart as possible of the geneticdiversity within Khaya species inBenin.

Through this study, the Vavilov–Frankel Fellowship will provideBenin with one of its first geneticdiversity analysis on forest treespecies. It will help in the establish-ment of ex situ collection of Khayaspecies in the country. Hence, the dis-tribution map of the genetic diversitywithin Khaya species will be animportant tool for forest managersand authorities when sampling popu-lations to establish the country’s exsitu collection. The map will also beused to select the most importantKhaya spp. populations to conserve insitu. This project will provide thechance to bring together forestauthorities, non governmental orga-nizations (NGOs) working on naturalresources conservation, universityscientists and the Forest GeneticResources Committee of the BeninNational Programme on GeneticResources (IPGRI). In the course oftwo public conferences and workingsessions, these parties will be able toshare the conclusions of the studyand discuss short- and medium-termactions that need to be taken.The results of this research will be pre-sented to at least one internationalmeeting on forest genetic resourcesand published in peer-review journals.

For further information, please contact:Dr Oscar Eyog-Matig IPGRI WCA(OscarE@iitab.cgiar.org) or Orou G.Gaoue (ogaoue@yahoo.com)

OOTTHHEERR VVAAVVIILLOOVV--FFRRAANNKKEELL

FFEELLLLOOWWSSHHIIPPSS 22000044 The following fellowships were alsomade available in 2004 with the gener-ous support of the Grains Researchand Development Corporation ofAustralia and Pioneer Hi-BredInternational Inc., a Dupont company:SSttuuddyy ooff tthhee mmoolleeccuullaarr bbaassiiss ooff rreessiissttaanncceettoo rruusstt ddiisseeaasseess iinn TTrriittiiccuumm ttiimmoopphheeeevviiii,,aa ssppeecciieess ooff wwhheeaatt eennddeemmiicc ttoo GGeeoorrggiiaa

Tamar Jinjikhadze (Georgia) 2004

Further information on and applicationforms for the Vavilov–Frankel Fellowshipare available on the IPGRI Web site:(http://www.ipgri.cgiar.org/system/page.asp?frame=training/vavilov.htm)

Bark harvest from Khaya senegalensis (Benin)

O.G

. Gao

ue

fgr research 21

REGIONAL PROGRAMMES ON FGR

Regional Programmes on FGR

APFORGEN: Asia, Pacific and Oceania – launching the FGR programme

Participants at the APFORGEN meeting, July 2003. Forestry Research Institute of Malaysia

Asia is characterized by a vastdiversity in terms of biologicalresources as well as cultures

managing the biological diversity.More than half of the world’s popula-tion is located in this region, whichhas less than 15% of the world’sforests. Moreover, the region is splitinto many floristic regions with dis-tinctly different ecological features. The Asia Pacific Forest GeneticResources Programme (APFORGEN)is a programme to support forestgenetic resources (FGR) conservationand management in South, East andSoutheast Asia and the Pacific (Box 1).

● Strengthen national programmeson forest genetic diversity in theparticipat ing countries.

● Enhance regional networkingand collaboration on FGRconservation and management.

● Locate, characterize, conserve and facilitate exchange of

Box 1. The objectives of APFORGEN

genetic diversity of selected priority forest species.

● Promote sustainable utilizationof genetic diversity in natural and human-established forests.

● Enhance linkages with otherregional and international networks.

fgr researchfgr researchHIGHLIGHTS

22 fgr research

Pacific region. However, only a smallportion of all local timber specieswith potential commercial value isprotected effectively through focusedconservation programmes. A largepart of tree improvement and ex situconservation activities is focusing onintroduced species. This is reflectedby the fact that, in plantation pro-grammes, fast-growing exotic speciesare much more widely used thanindigenous tree species. The avail-ability of reproductive materials oflocal species for plantation or rehabil-itation activities is often poor in bothquantity and quality. In addition, exsitu conservation of local species isregarded as too costly in many cases.Additional national and internationalfocus and resources are needed tosupport FGR programmes in theregion. In this regard, APFORGENaims to function as a facilitator, assist-ing national programmes in resourcegeneration and regional collabora-tion. Developing integrated conserva-tion programmes that include in situand ex situ conservation, communityforestry and domestication has beensuggested as a way to help conserveplant genetic resources. Some coun-tries, such as India and Nepal, arepromoting FGR conservation throughcommunity forestry programmes. Conservation needs are often wellacknowledged by national forestryresearch institutions. However, a lackof resources and perhaps of politicalwill to increase support for FGR con-servation seems commonplace. FGRconservation is not considered a pri-ority activity. Moreover, in somecases, training in FGR management isinadequate in the education of profes-sional foresters. As a consequence,the capacity for research on FGR isstill rather low in some countries.Supporting training of forestry pro-fessionals as well as local communi-ties in FGR conservation is one ofAPFORGEN’s priority activities.In the country papers, some reportson introduced tree species becominginvasive were presented, e.g. Acaciamangium and A. nilotica in Indonesia;Prosopis juliflora in Sri Lanka; Leucaenaleucocephala in India; and Swieteniamacrophylla in the Philippines.

AAPPFFOORRGGEENN IINNCCEEPPTTIIOONN

WWOORRKKSSHHOOPP

The APFORGEN inception workshopwas held on 15–18 July 2003 at theForest Research Institute, Malaysia,with participants from 13 countries(Bangladesh, Cambodia, China, India,Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Nepal,Pakistan Philippines, Sri Lanka,Thailand and Vietnam), IPGRI, theAsia Pacific Association of ForestryResearch Institutions (APAFRI), theFood and Agriculture Organization ofthe United Nations (FAO) and theDanida Forest Seed Centre (DFSC).The objectives of the workshopincluded: ● document the status of FGR conser-

vation and management in theregion;

● develop a work programme onFGR for APFORGEN;

● identify effective means for dissem-ination of FGR information amongparticipating partners;

● discuss the development of a data-base for FGR information for theregion;

● assess the activities undertakenSoutheast Asian countries since the2001 workshop in Thailand andlearn about the status in the Southand East Asian countries;

● identify priorities for APFORGEN.

The workshop discussed the opera-tional structure and governance ofAPFORGEN. The four-day pro-gramme enabled the drawing-up ofthe framework for the operation ofAPFORGEN and the identification often concept ideas on various FGR-related topics with regional focus.Twelve practical recommendationswere made for the development ofthe programme. Presentations at theworkshop included country statusreports from 13 countries as well astwo technical papers, one on ex situconservation and one on the applica-tion of molecular methods for conser-vation. The workshop compiled a list of pri-ority species for the region to be usedas a guide for collaborative researchand development (R&D) in FGR,bearing in mind the limited trainedhuman resources for FGR work in the

region. Another area identified asbeing in need of attention was that ofimproving the flow and accessibilityof FGR information in the region.Participants endorsed the setting upof the APFORGEN Secretariat toimprove the situation, in addition toother ways of communication.Many common areas of interest wereidentified, including: ● ex situ and in situ conservation;● germplasm management;● exchange of genetic material;● domestication and tree improve-

ment;● strengthening national FGR pro-

grammes through networking,extension, public awareness,human resources development andtraining;

● evaluation, documentation andcharacterization of FGR informa-tion;

● social aspects of the protection ofFGR (local communities, genderissues, etc.);

● inclusion of FGR into national poli-cies and strategies.

Priority species as well as priorityareas for capacity building and train-ing were also identified separately forSouth Asia and Southeast Asia. The country status papers clearlyindicate a great need for improvedmanagement and more sustainableuse of FGR across the region. Thedownward trend in forest area andquality is still prevalent in most mem-ber countries, with some exceptions.As a result of overexploitation andillegal logging, many important andcommercially valuable species arebecoming rare and even extinct. Inaddition, there are still many uniden-tified forest species. On the otherhand, forest resources are importantto all the countries in the region. Thegreat importance of FGR for localrural communities in supporting theirlivelihoods was highlighted in almostall the papers. FGR conservation is commonly car-ried out in the form of nature reserveswhose main focus is ecosystem con-servation. Many new nature conser-vation areas have been designated inthe last few decades in the Asia

fgr research 23

forest ecosystem stability and pro-ductivity.Therefore, conservation and the ratio-nal use of FGR should be importantissues in the broad range of natureconservation measures undertaken asa basis for improving the status offorests. The Central Asian countries ofKazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan,Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan aresimilar to each other in terms of theirphysical and geographical conditions.Hence, the structure of their forestvegetation is also similar. This is whythese countries have realized theneed for close cooperation in conser-vation and sustainable use of biodi-versity, including FGR, in the region.In October 1996 at the first interna-tional workshop on plant geneticresources in Central Asia (Tashkent,Uzbekistan), representatives of allfive Central Asian countries agreed toestablish the Central Asian Networkon Plant Genetic Resources(CAN–PGR). In 1999, the CAN–PGRwas renamed the Central Asian andTranscaucasian Network on PlantGenetic Resources (CATCN–PGR).The working group on FGR was oneof the first of nine crop workinggroups established within the net-work. The first meeting of the RegionalWorking Group on Forest GeneticResources of CAN–PGR was held inAugust 1997 in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.Participants at the meeting selectedpriority species for conservation inthe region and agreed on the need to

start development of national pro-grammes on the conservation andsustainable use of FGR.Development of a computerizedregional database on FGR based onavailable passport data of forestspecies was one of the priority activi-ties among the collaborative effortsagreed by the country representa-tives. Following this decision, theestablishment of a database inCentral Asia was launched by theUzbek Research Institute of Forestrywith the support of IPGRI in 1999.The main objective of this initiativewas the compilation and computeri-zation of available data on FGR inCentral Asian countries, which at thattime were dispersed and recorded innotebooks, cards, etc. and unfriendlyfor users.The database contains up-to-date pass-port data on more than 154 trees ofpriority species (Juniperus seravchanica,J. semiglobosa, J. turkestanica, Haloxylonaphellum, Pinus Pallasiana, P. silvestris,Picea sibirica and P. excelsa), more than12 tree plantations (Picea Shrenkiana,Haloxylon aphellum, Ficus carica,Juniperus turkomanica and Punicagranatum), 2 genetic reserves (PiceaShrenkiana and Juniperus seravchanica),6 field collections (Amygdalus communis,Juglans regia, Populus alba var.Stremitelniy, P. alba var. PervenetzUzbekistana, and P. alba var.Pyramidalniy Uluchenniy), 19 per-manent forest-seed production plots(Picea sibirica, P. excelsa, P. Shrenkiana,Haloxylon aphellum, Ficus carica, Punicagranatum and Juniperus turkomanica),

CWANA:Central andWestern Asia,and NorthAfrica

REGIONAL PROGRAMMES ON FGR

However, the problems are stillrestricted to certain areas. The institutional framework for FGRconservation has been developingfast in many countries in the region.National forest policies and/or legis-lation were revised in the 1990s inmany South and Southeast Asiancountries. Generally, the revised for-est policies attach a high priority tobiodiversity conservation. However,links between FGR conservation andoverall biodiversity conservation

need to be defined. Fiscal deficitsremain a major constraint on the suc-cessful implementation of thereformed policies on FGR.The proceedings of the inceptionworkshop are available from IPGRIAPO and at: www.apforgen.org.The APFORGEN Secretariat that runsthe day-to-day activities of the pro-gramme has been jointly establishedby APAFRI and IPGRI, and is cur-rently hosted by APAFRI in KualaLumpur, Malaysia. National coordi-

nators (official country representa-tives) were identified for the pro-gramme. More countries are expectedto join the programme as it develops.

For further information on APFORGEN, please contact:Tapio Luoma-aho, IPGRI Asia, Pacificand Oceania, or Dr Sim Heok-Choh,APFORGEN Secretariat at APAFRI(secretariat@apforgen.org); Web site:http://www.apforgen.org

RREEGGIIOONNAALL FFGGRR DDAATTAABBAASSEE

EESSTTAABBLLIISSHHEEDD IINN CCEENNTTRRAALL AASSIIAA

Forests in the region of CentralAsia and the Caucasus (CAC) arethe richest storehouse of the most

valuable and unique specific andintraspecific biodiversity in theworld. The uniqueness of this forest-growing region is determined by thecombination of specific physical, geo-graphical, soil and climate conditions.There are desert, mountainous andriverside forests in the region. Theseforests provide valuable ecosystemservices such as protection of hydro-logical function, climate stabilization,and biodiversity conservation.However, increasing farming activityis affecting the environment negative-ly, and the irrational use of forestresources is causing degradation ofnatural habitat of forest trees and areduction in agricultural production.In addition, there is a narrowing offorest species diversity because of theunsustainable use of forest geneticresources (FGR). The loss of plantspecies diversity and degradation ofgenetic potential of natural foreststands could lead to a weakening of

fgr researchfgr researchHIGHLIGHTS

24 fgr research

and 108 promising forms of grapevineand nut-bearing species (Vitis venifira,Amygdalus communis, Juglans regiaand Pistacia vera). IPGRI is now work-ing with national partners in theregion to make the database accessi-ble via the Internet.

FFOOUURRTTHH MMEEEETTIINNGG OOFF FFGGRRWWOORRKKIINNGG GGRROOUUPP OOFF

CCAATTCCNN––PPGGRRThe fourth FGR Working Groupmeeting of CATCN–PGR was held on11–13 August 2003 in Bishkek,Kyrgyzstan, with the support of IPGRI.The meeting was hosted by theInstitute of Forest and Nut Industryof the National Academy of Sciencesof the Kyrgyz Republic.Representatives from member coun-tries (Azerbaijan, Georgia, Kazakhstan,Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistanand Uzbekistan) participated in themeeting.The meeting, also attended by staff ofState Forestry Service of the KyrgyzRepublic, was opened by HE DrTuratbek Musuraliev, the Ministerand Chairman of the State ForestryService. The Minister noted that inspite of forests in CAC being limited

in extent, they are of great importancebecause they play a major role inenvironmental sustainability in theregion and are a source of many typesof non-timber forest products(NTFPs) for local people such as wildnuts, fruits, berries, medicinal plants,honey, and cattle forage. He chal-lenged participants to develop newways of strengthening collaborationin FGR conservation among CACcountries.The meeting was briefed on progressmade by the FGR Working Group in2000–02, particularly about its activi-ties at regional and national levels inthe areas of: ● collaborative research● FGR documentation● public awareness● technical publications● training● international collaboration.

A draft format of the regional strate-gy on FGR in CAC was discussedand participants made their recom-mendations for its improvement.Draft recommendations on the con-servation, regeneration and sustain-able use of rare, endemic and endan-

EUFORGENenters phase III

gered forest species were also final-ized.A draft concept note was presentedregarding a regional project proposalon “Conservation of indigenous forestspecies and their use in combatingland degradation and improving liv-ing conditions in mountainous areain CAC countries”. Following discus-sion, the purpose of the project wasmodified, additional activities wereincluded, and expected outputs wereclarified more precisely. The FGRWorking Group developed its workplan for 2003–05. The following meet-ing of the FGR Working Group wasscheduled for August 2005 at theUzbek Forestry Research Institute.Participants emphasized the impor-tance of collaboration and poolingefforts in the study, conservation andsustainable use of FGR in the region,which is in a dry area with little pre-cipitation and poor soils. Informationon the meeting was disseminated bythe media in Kyrgyzstan.

For further information, please contact:Muhabbat Turdieva, IPGRI Central Asia(mturdieva@ipgri.cgiar.org)

In the past ten years, the EuropeanForest Genetic ResourcesProgramme (EUFORGEN) has

actively facilitated regional collabora-tion and strengthening of nationalefforts to manage forest genetic diver-sity in Europe. The work has beencarried out following the recommen-dation of the Ministerial Conferenceson the Protection Forests in Europe(MCPFE), the political process thatinitiated and endorsed the establish-ment of the EUFORGEN in the early1990s. In April 2003, the fourthMinisterial Conference stressed theneed to integrate conservation of for-est genetic resources (FGR) into sus-

J. K

osk

ela

Participants at the fifth Temperate Oaks and Beech Network meeting discussing management ofa beech (Fagus sylvatica) stand in the Slánské Vrchy Mountains (Slovakia)

fgr research 25

REGIONAL PROGRAMMES ON FGR

tainable forest management and con-tinue pan-European collaboration inthis field.In addition to facilitating exchange ofinformation and genetic material,EUFORGEN has produced other out-puts, such as gene conservationstrategies for target forest treespecies, descriptors, databases, andtechnical guidelines for genetic con-servation and use (Table 1). The tech-nical guidelines are available onlineat: www.euforgen.org. They havebeen developed to specifically targetpractical forest managers and providesummarized information on: biologyand ecology of the species, distribu-tion ranges, importance and use,genetic knowledge, threats to geneticdiversity, and recommendations forgenetic conservation. In Phase II (2000–04), EUFORGENalso initiated development of so-called ‘common action plans’, whichaim at sharing responsibilities forFGR conservation in Europe. Thecommon action plans are an effort tocreate pan-European networks of pri-marily in situ conservation units forselected tree species throughout theirentire distribution ranges. This effortinvolves obtaining georeferenceddata on these units for further analy-ses and action. Ex situ conservationunits outside species’ natural distrib-ution ranges can also be included ifthey contribute to dynamic gene con-servation. Common action plans can help toidentify gaps and overlaps in geneconservation efforts at both nationaland pan-European level.Subsequently, countries can assesswhich gene conservation units undertheir responsibility are the most valu-able ones from the pan-European per-spective. They can then prioritize theuse of their human and financialresources accordingly. This will bringlong-term benefits for the countriesand ensure that common goals can beaccomplished at minimum cost.National coordinators and focal per-sons from 30 countries met at thefourth meeting of the EUFORGENSteering Committee in Zidlochovice,Czech Republic, on 26–29 May 2004.The meeting reviewed the progress

Table 1. Tree species included in the technical guidelines

Abies alba Silver fir

Acer pseudoplatanus Sycamore

Alnus cordata* Italian alder

Alnus glutinosa Black alder

Castanea sativa Chestnut

Fagus sylvatica* Beech

Fraxinus excelsior Common ash

Juglans regia* Walnut

Larix decidua* Larch

Liquidambar orientalis Oriental sweet gum

Malus sylvestris Wild apple

Picea abies Norway spruce

Pinus brutia Brutia pine

Pinus cembra Swiss stone pine

Pinus halepensis Aleppo pine

Pinus leucodermis* Bosnian pine

Pinus nigra Black pine

Pinus peuce* Macedonian pine

Pinus pinaster Maritime pine

Pinus pinea Italian stone pine

Pinus sylvestris Scots pine

Populus alba* European white poplar

Populus nigra European black poplar

Prunus avium Wild cherry

Pyrus pyraster Wild pear

Quercus petraea Sessile oak

Quercus robur Pedunculate oak

Quercus suber Cork oak

Sorbus domestica Service tree

Sorbus torminalis Wild service tree

Taxus baccata* Common yew

Tilia cordata Small-leaf lime

Tilia platyphyllos Large-leaf lime

* To be published by end 2005.

Latin name Common name

fgr researchfgr researchHIGHLIGHTS

26 fgr research

made in Phase II and discussed theimplementation of future activities.The Steering Committee alsoendorsed continuation of the pro-gramme to Phase III (2005–09).Currently, 32 countries are partecipat-ing in EUFORGEN by providingfinancial and technical support. In the new phase, the challenge is totranslate the various recommenda-tions and guidelines into practice.This means stronger incorporation ofgenetic issues into national forest pro-grammes, which provide the frame-work for implementing all forest-related policies at country level. Atoperational level, there is a need toincrease awareness among practicalforest managers on the role of FGR insustaining forestry and helping tocope with the effects of climatechange. Information management inFGR work has also been identified asan area where improvement can con-siderably support the implementationefforts. Harmonizing the collectionand management of information willhelp countries in Europe to bettermonitor their FGR and share respon-sibilities for conserving theseresources.For Phase III, the Steering Committeedecided to streamline the EUFORGEN

structure and merge the current fivespecies networks [i.e. Conifers,Mediterranean Oaks, NobleHardwoods, Populus nigra (blackpoplar), and Temperate Oaks andBeech] into three new ones: conifers,broadleaves with scattered occur-rence, and broadleaves with continu-ous occurrence. New thematic structures, namely theForest Management Network and theInformation Working Group, will beestablished to complement thespecies networks. Through these the-matic arrangements, EUFORGENwill promote implementation of therecommendations presented in thetechnical guidelines and support inte-gration of gene conservation issuesinto national forest programmes andpolicies. Furthermore, the pro-gramme will focus on developingprotocols to evaluate genetic conse-quences of different silviculturalpractices and identifying geneticallyappropriate practices in collaborationwith forest managers and policy-makers. The Information WorkingGroup will streamline informationmanagement among all networks andserve as a platform for inter-networkcollaboration.Before the Steering Committee meet-

ing, EUFORGEN networks had dis-cussed various topics at their recentmeetings. The Populus nigraNetwork had its eighth meeting inGermany on 22–24 May 2003. Amongother issues, participants from 17countries discussed the local situa-tion along the River Oder and pro-vided recommendations for over-coming the problems in naturalregeneration of the black poplarstands. Similar problems persist inother river systems in Europe as aconsequence of habitat alteration byagriculture, urbanization of flood-plains and hydraulic engineering ofrivers.The Temperate Oaks and BeechNetwork held its fifth meeting inSlovakia on 21–23 June 2003 withrepresentatives from 21 countries.The meeting included a seminar onthe distribution of the species in theCarpathian Mountains, the taxonom-ical position of minor white oakspecies within the Q. robur, Q.petraea and Q. pubescens complexes,and the differences in genetic diversityand morphology between the twobeech species occurring in EasternEurope (Fagus sylvatica and F. orien-talis).The Conifers Network held its fourth

In situ conservation stand of small-leaf lime (Tilia cordata) in Punkaharju (Finland)

J. K

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fgr research 27

REGIONAL PROGRAMMES ON FGR

meeting in the UK on 18–20 October2003. Network participants from 26countries addressed the issue of con-serving and using exotic coniferspecies in Europe and learned aboutrelevant experiences from severalcountries. Countries with low forestcover, such as Iceland, Ireland andthe UK, make widespread use of exoticconifers, not only for forestry purpos-es but also for protecting the environ-ment. The experiences demonstratethat second-generation performanceof some exotic tree species alreadyshows adaptation to their new envi-ronment. This may lead to the emer-gence of landraces. The participantsstressed that such locally adaptedgenetic material should be conservedusing appropriate methods. The net-work recommended that the geneconservation of exotic tree speciesreceive more attention in Europe.The Mediterranean Oaks Networkheld its third meeting in the FormerYugoslav Republic of Macedonia on6–8 November 2003 with participantsfrom 11 countries. This meetingfocused on the effects of climatechange on the Mediterranean oakforests. Genetic aspects and function-al response of different oak prove-nances to changing environmentalconditions were discussed as was theincreasing occurrence of forest fires(based on case studies from theFormer Yugoslav Republic ofMacedonia, and Portugal).On 22–24 April 2004, the meeting inItaly of the Noble HardwoodsNetwork brought together partici-pants from 27 countries. As part ofthe meeting, gene conservation, treebreeding and the uses of noble hard-woods were highlighted through aseminar and a field trip to mixednoble hardwood plantations, whichhad been established on wastelandfollowing mining activities.Further details on the outputs ofthese meetings and other networkactivities are available at the EUFOR-GEN Web site (www.euforgen.org).

For further information, please contact: Dr Jarkko Koskela, EUFORGENCoordinator, IPGRI Europe (Jkoskela@cgiar.org)

CCOONNSSEERRVVAATTIIOONN OOFF FFGGRR IINNCCEENNTTRRAALL AAFFRRIICCAA

The Food and AgricultureOrganization of the UnitedNations (FAO) in collaboration

with the Sub-Saharan Africa ForestGenetic Resources Programme(SAFORGEN), the African TimberOrganisation (ATO), the UnitedNations Development Programme(UNDP) – Cameroon, and partners incentral Africa organized a workshopon the conservation and managementof forest genetic resources (FGR) inCentral African countries. The work-shop was held in Pointe Noire,Congo, on 14–15 October 2003 andthe following countries in the subre-gion were represented: Cameroon,Congo, Democratic Republic ofCongo, and Sao Tome and Principe.The main aim of the workshop was toproduce an action plan for the conser-vation and sustainable use of FGR inthe region. Country reports on thestatus of FGR in Central African werepresented and discussed. The partici-pants then agreed on a list of priorityspecies for the region and interven-tions that could help in their conser-vation.Three items were identified by partic-ipants as having genetic considera-tions that could be important fordecision-makers:● seed origin (for natural and artifi-

cial regeneration and for planta-tions);

● tree provenance and genecologydistribution (provenance behav-iour/growth);

● vegetative propagation applied tothe selection and domestication offruit and medicinal trees.

It was the opinion of the participantsthat the value added by the geneticcomponent to the forest managementprocess will only be recognized byforest technicians, managers anddecision-makers if the informationgenerated is operational, simple andpractical. The participants also recog-nized the need to collate, process,

synthesize and disseminate existinginformation for selected representa-tive tree species on diversity, physiol-ogy, reproductive biology and seedmanagement.Considering the limited number offorest research institutions in the sub-region dealing with FGR issues, par-ticipants highlighted the importanceof networking and internationalcooperation based on exchange ofexperiences, expertise and informa-tion. SAFORGEN was asked to playan even greater role to facilitate net-working and collaboration among thedifferent players in FGR work notonly in humid Central Africa but alsoin the entire sub-Saharan Africaregion.This workshop in the humid CentralAfrican region is part of a series ofworkshops organized by FAO withIPGRI–SAFORGEN collaboration insub-Saharan Africa. The first meet-ing was organized in 1998 inOuagadougou, Burkina Faso, for theSahelian and north Sudanian dryzones. The second workshop wasorganized in Arusha, Tanzania, forthe countries of the Southern AfricanDevelopment Community (SADC).The last one is this one for thehumid Central African region. Themajor aim of these meetings hasbeen to assess the state of FGR ineach of the countries and to use thisassessment to develop a regionalaction plan for their conservationand sustainable use.

For further information, please contact: Dr Oscar Eyog-Matig, Coordinator ofSAFORGEN, IPGRI West and CentralAfrica (OscarE@iitab.cgiar.org), or PierreSigaud, Forest Resources Division, FAO(pierre.sigaud@fao.org)

SAFORGEN

FOREST GENETIC RESOURCES

CONSERVATION AND

MANAGEMENT, VOL. 1.

Overview,general concepts and

systematic approaches

2004. FAO, DFSC, IPGRI, Rome, Italy.

FOREST GENETIC RESOURCES

CONSERVATION AND

MANAGEMENT, VOL. 3.

In plantations and genebanks (ex situ)

2004. FAO, DFSC, IPGRI, Rome, Italy.

BAMBOO – THE AMAZING GRASS

A Guide to the Diversity and Study of

Bamboos in Southeast Asia.Wong, K.M. 2004.

IPGRI and University of Malaya 2004.

CHALLENGES IN MANAGING

FOREST GENETIC DIVERSITY FOR

LIVELIHOODS: EXAMPLES FROM

ARGENTINA AND BRAZIL

B.Vinceti,W.Amaral, B. Meilleur (eds.). 2004

IPGRI, Rome, Italy.

POPULUS NIGRA NETWORK

Report of seventh (2-27 October

2001, Osijek, Croatia) and eighth

meetings

(22-24 May 2003, Treppeln, Germany)

Koskela, J., S.M.G. de Vries, D. Kajba and G. von

Wuehlisch, compilers. 2004 IPGRI, Rome, Italy.

FOREST TREE SEED HEALTH

IPGRI Technical Bulletin

Sutherland J. R. , M. Diekman and

P. Berjak (eds.) 2003 IPGRI, Rome, Italy.

FOREST GENETIC RESOURCES

CONSERVATION AND MANAGEMENT

Luoma-aho,T., L.T. Hong,V. Ramanatha Rao

and H.C. Sim (eds.). 2004. Proceedings of the

Asia Pacific Forest Genetic Resources

Programme (APFORGEN) Inception

Workshop, Kepong, Malaysia, 15–18 July, 2003.

IPGRI APO, Serdang, Malaysia.

CONIFERS NETWORK

Report of the second meeting (20-22

September 2001,Valsain, Spain) and the

third meeting (17-19 October 2002,

Kostrzyca, Poland)

Vancura K., B. Fady, J. Koskela and C. Mátyás,

compilers. 2004. EUFORGEN IPGRI, Rome, Italy.

MEDITERRANEAN OAKS NETWORK

Report of the second meeting,

2-4 May 2002, Gozo,Malta.

Bozzano M. and J.Turok, compilers. 2003.

IPGRI PUBLICATIONS

28 fgr research

fgr researchfgr researchHIGHLIGHTS

DEVELOPMENT OF APPROPRIATE

CONSERVATION STRATEGIES FOR

AFRICAN FOREST TREES

IDENTIFIED AS PRIORITY SPECIES

BY SAFORGEN MEMBER

COUNTRIES

Eyog-Matig, O., O.G. Gaoue and

E. Obel-Lawson. 2002. IPGRI, Nairobi, Kenya.

PROGRAMME DE RESSOURCES

GÉNÉTIQUES FORESTIÈRES EN

AFRIQUE AU SUD DU SAHARA

Réseau «Espèces Ligneuses Alimentaires»

Compte Rendu de la première Réunion du

Réseau 11–13 Décembre 2000. CNSF

Ouagadougou Burkina Faso.

Eyog-Matig, O., O.G. Gaoue et B. Dossoue

(editeurs). 2002.IPGRI, Nairobi, Kenya.

fgr research 29

IPGRI PUBLICATIONS

ACACIA SPP.

FAO/IPGRI Technical Guidelines for the Safe

Movement of Germplasm No. 20.

Old, K.M.,T.K.Vercoe, R.B. Floyd, M.J.

Wingfield, J. Roux and S. Neser. 2003.

FAO/IPGRI, Rome, Italy.

PINUS SPP.

FAO/IPGRI Technical Guidelines for the Safe

Movement of Germplasm No. 21. Diekmann,

M., J.R. Sutherland, D.C. Nowell,

F.J. Moreale and G.Allard (eds.). 2003.

FAO/IPGRI, Rome, Italy.

Most of these publications areavailable in pdf format and maybe downloaded from IPGRI’sonline catalogue at:http://www.ipgri.cgiar.org/publications/pubselect.asp.

Please note that you mustselect the title from theappropriate drop-down menuand fill out a survey form.

Alternatively, please contactBarbara Vinceti(bvinceti@cgiar.org).

NOBLE HARDWOODS NETWORK,

Report of the fourth meeting, (4-6

September 1999), Gmunden,Austria

and fifth meeting, (17-19 May 2001),

Blessington, Ireland

Turok, J., G. Eriksson, K. Russel

and S. Borelli, compilers. 2002

IPGRI, Rome, Italy.

IIPPGGRRII FFGGRR SSCCIIEENNTTIISSTTSSIINNVVOOLLVVEEDD IINN FFOORREESSTT GGEENNEETTIICC RREESSOOUURRCCEE AACCTTIIVVIITTIIEESS

Dr Weber Neves do AmaralSenior Scientist,Coordinator Global FGR Project, IPGRI HQ

Dr Kwesi Atta-KrahDirector, IPGRI Sub-Saharan Africa

Mr Tom BazuinIPGRI Central,West Asia and North Africa (up to June 2000)

Mr Michele BozzanoScientific Assistant EUFORGEN, IPGRI HQ

Dr Ehsan DullooGermplasm Conservation Scientist, IPGRI HQ

Dr Oscar Eyog-MatigCoordinator SAFORGEN, IPGRI West andCentral Africa

Dr Jarkko KoskelaCoordinator EUFORGEN, IPGRI Europe

Mr Come LinsoussiScientific Assistant SAFORGEN,IPGRI West and Central Africa

Mr Tapio Luoma-AhoAssociate Scientist, IPGRI Asia, Pacific andOceania

Mr Michael MboggaAssociate Scientist, IPGRI Sub-Saharan Africa

Dr Ramanatha RaoSenior Scientist, Genetic DiversityConservation, IPGRI Asia, Pacific and Oceania

Mr Hong Lay TongBamboo, Rattan and FGR Specialist,IPGRI Asia, Pacific and Oceania

Dr Muhabbat Turdieva Scientist, IPGRI Central Asia

Dr Jozef TurokRegional Director, IPGRI Europe

Dr Barbara VincetiAssociate Scientist, IPGRI HQ

Ms Louise WillemenAssociate Scientist, IPGRI Americas

NON-IPGRI CONTRIBUTORS

Prof Patricia BerjakUniversity of KwaZulu-Natal, South AfricaE-mail: Berjak@biology.und.as.za

Dr David BlakesleyWildlife Landscapes, UK E-mail: David.Blakesley@btinternet.com

Mr William Chrispo HamisyNational Plant Genetic Resources Centre,Arusha,TanzaniaE-mail: chiutila66@yahoo.co.uk

Dr Christopher DickSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute dickc@naos.si.edu

Dr Stephen ElliottForest Restoration Research Unit (FORRU)Department of Biology, Faculty of Science,Chiang Mai University,Thailand.E-mail: aquarius99@hotmail.com

Mr Orou G. Gaoue E-mail: Ogaoue@yahoo.com

Dr Celia JamesEast Malling ResearchUK E-mail: celia.james@emr.ac.uk

Dr Lee Soon-LeongSenior Research OfficerForest Research Institute of Malaysia, Kepong,Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia E-mail: leesl@frim.gov.my

Dr Greuk PakkadForest Restoration Research Unit (FORRU)Department of Biology, Faculty of Science,Chiang Mai University,Thailand E-mail: greukp@yahoo.com

Dr Parvin Salehi ShanjaniResearch Institute of Forests and Rangelands,Tehran, IranE-mail: psalehi@rifr-ac.org

Mr Wubalem TadesseNational Tree Seed Programme, EthiopianAgricultural Research Organization (EARO)E-mail: ntsp@telecom.net.et

INTERNATIONAL PLANT GENETIC RESOURCES INSTITUTE HeadquartersVia dei Tre denari 472/a00057 Maccarese (Fiumicino)Rome, ItalyTel (39) 0661181Fax (39) 066197661email: ipgri@cgiar.orghttp://www.ipgri.cgiar.org

Main donors to the FGR ProjectIn alphabetical order:

CANADADENMARKEUROPEAN UNIONGERMANYITALY JAPANNETHERLANDSWORLD BANK

This issue of FGR research highlights is edited by the following IPGRI staff:Weber Amaral,Tapio Luoma-Aho,Michael Mbogga and Barbara Vinceti.