A somatic embryogenesis system for breeding pine hybrids that are resistant to water stress
Neiker-Tecnalia has been working with UPV / EHU-University in the Basque Country and has been studying the high water stress tolerance of Pinus radiata X Pinus attenuata hybrids in recent years. Given the ecosystem being experienced and being modified by climate change, these trees appear to be a very interesting alternative to the forestry sector. In order to obtain new specimens of these trees in a fast and productive manner, the Basque Agricultural Research and Development Institute, Neiker-Tecnalia and SCION-New Zealand Forest Research Institute have developed a somatic embryogenesis system (*). The species of Pinus radiata X Pinus attenuata, a species of pine, has been shown to be resistant to water deficits. In addition to making the organization's cryopreservation possible, their research also obtained a large number of plants in a short period of time, so that tissue can be used according to market demand.
Research conducted by Neiker-Tecnalia and SCION, led by researchers Paloma Moncalean and Cathy Hargreaves, respectively, has been carried out in the SCION facility to find productive tree species that are highly resistant to water stress. Can be used for reforestation in Spain and New Zealand.
Especially in terms of somatic embryogenesis, recent advances in forest biotechnology have opened up possibilities for increasing forest productivity and improving the quality of wood products. In addition to being an efficient method, somatic embryogenesis is a very valuable tool in forestry biotechnology. Advanced countries in the forestry sector, such as Canada, use this technology to optimize genetic improvement programs and protect elite genotypes. For all of these reasons, somatic embryogenesis has made a very positive contribution to the restoration and sustainable management of forests.
Economic feasibility goal
The project, operated by Neiker-Tecnalia and SCION, provides a foundation for economic viability in addition to contributing to forest management and sustainable development. The growing demand for land for agriculture and urban development usually means that commercial forests are planted in marginal dry mountains. This location and the situation of extreme weather phenomena are creating an environment in which hybrid trees can be a valuable commercial resource for the future because they can withstand water stress and harsh climatic conditions.
The technologies used by Neiker-Tecnalia and SCION are seen by various governments as interesting tools for public and private companies. In New Zealand, SCION and Prosed Nueva Zelanda Ltd are working together to obtain systems and plant materials that will adapt to future climatic conditions. In Canada, the National Somatic Embryogenesis Laboratory Network (NNSEL) has been established within the Canadian Forestry Bureau to effectively transfer biotechnology advances to the forestry sector. In addition, the Canadian government has adopted cryopreservation as one of its policies to protect threatened species such as birch trees.
