Intra- and interspecific genetic variability in progeny tests and an in vivo germplasm bank of Eucalyptus spp.

• Grant number: 25/15842-4
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: November 01, 2025
• End date: October 31, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Agronomical Sciences - Forestry Resources and Forestry Engineering
• Principal Investigator: Evandro Vagner Tambarussi
• Grantee: Maria Clara Moraes Pires
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Ciências Agronômicas (FCA). Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP). Campus de Botucatu. Botucatu , SP, Brazil

Abstract

The conservation of genetic diversity is essential for the success of forest breeding programs, especially in the face of challenges posed by biotic and abiotic stresses and climate change. This study aims to perform the phenotypic and genotypic characterization of an in vivo germplasm bank composed of 25 Eucalyptus species, located at the School of Agricultural Sciences in Botucatu (SP), Brazil. The research involves an inventory of silvicultural traits such as height, diameter at breast height, and volume, in addition to genotyping using microsatellite markers. The experimental design adopted was completely randomized, with a spacing of 3 x 2 meters. The analyses include estimates of genetic parameters such as heritability, coefficients of variation, and genetic gain from selection. Molecular data will be used to assess the intra- and intergenotypic variability among Eucalyptus spp. species. The results are expected to support future crossing and breeding strategies, contributing to the strengthening of genetic diversity and the resilience of forest plantations.