Acacia mangium: studies on the genetic variation in ecological and physiological characteristics of a fast-growing plantation tree species.

Abstract

Results are reported from studies on variation in growth characteristics, foliar nutrient concentration, phyllode anatomy and stomatal frequency of 16 different sources in a provenance trial in Thailand. Family variation and heritability of growth and flowering frequency were calculated for 20 open-pollinated families at the age of 28 months. In laboratory studies, transpiration rate, leaf conductance and leaf water potential were measured for different soil moisture regimes. Responses of photosynthesis, photorespiration and dark respiration, and CO₂ compensation point were assessed in relation to temperature and irradiance. Recommendations are made for the selection of A. mangium provenances for planting in Thailand.