Genetic variation in the growth rate of seven-year-old Eucalyptus regnans.  L. A. Pederick.  July 1975.  20 pp. (unpubl.)

SUMMARY

1. Genetic differences in the growth rate of regnans trees up to age 7 years have been demonstrated.
2. Evidence from four trials has not shown any of the provenances represented in the trials to be superior, although the results do not preclude the existence of some other superior populations of this species in Victoria. It appears that Tasmanian provenances grown in Victoria are less vigorous than local provenances.
3. Variation (for growth rate) between trees within populations is substantial and appears to greatly exceed the variation between populations. Therefore, tree selection for a breeding program with the species is justified using any large suitably located population.
4. Preliminary estimates for gains (in growth rate at age 7 years) from a breeding program are of the order of 20 percent.
5. Certain regnans genotypes will grow very well when planted on sites distant from their seed origin and also at a different altitude. Evidence of the extent of possible environmental interactions on growth rate of genotypes is not yet available, and should be obtained.

Also published:

Pederick, L.A. (1976)  Genetic variation in the growth rate of seven-year-old Eucalyptus regnans.  For. Comm. Vic., For. Tech. Pap. 24: 5-10.