The Conifers: Genomes, Variation and Evolution

David B. Neale · Nicholas C. Wheeler

Mar 2019 · Springer

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This book is the first comprehensive volume on conifers detailing their genomes, variations, and evolution. The book begins with general information about conifers such as taxonomy, geography, reproduction, life history, and social and economic importance. Then topics discussed include the full genome sequence, complex traits, phenotypic and genetic variations, landscape genomics, and forest health and conservation. This book also synthesizes the research included to provide a bigger picture and suggest an evolutionary trajectory.

As a large plant family, conifers are an important part of economic botany. The group includes the pines, spruces, firs, larches, yews, junipers, cedars, cypresses, and sequoias. Of the phylum Coniferophyta, conifers typically bear cones and evergreen leaves. Recently, there has been much data available in conifer genomics with the publication of several crop and non-crop genome sequences. In addition to their economic importance, conifers are an important habitat for humans and animals, especially in developing parts of the world. The application of genomics for improving the productivity of conifer crops holds great promise to help provide resources for the most needy in the world.

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Dr. Neale's primary research interest is in the discovery and understanding of function of genes in forest trees, especially those controlling complex traits, through genetic mapping and genomic science technologies. In the very near future, nearly all the genes in pine will have been cloned and their DNA sequences determined. The cloned genes will serve as tools for functional analysis which will lead to understanding of complex patterns of coordinated expression of genes leading to phenotype. Initially, we have focused on traits of practical value such as wood quality, growth,and disease resistance but we expect to expand our studies to identifying genes determining patterns of adaptation and response to environmental stresses.

Dr. Wheeler has worked on the Conifer Translational Genomics Network Coordinated Agricultural Project, as well as at Oregon State University on conifer genome sequence and mapping.