Genetic Parameters and Genotype by Environment Interactions for Green and Basic Density and Stiffness of Pinus radiata D. Don Estimated Using Acoustics

Genetic parameters and genotype by environment interactions for wood properties of 13-year-old Pinus radiata were determined by sampling two progeny trials on contrasting sites in the southern slopes of New South Wales, Australia. Heritability of green and basic density were determined together with dynamic modulus of elasticity (MOE) measured using TreeTap. The phenotypic variance in MOE (CV 17-18%) was almost three times that of basic density. MOE and basic density were highly heritable at both sites (h2 0.57 & 0.79 for MOE & 0.59 and 0.85 for density). There was a moderately strong genetic correlation between MOE and basic density (0.64 across-sites). No genotype x environment interaction was detected in MOE or basic density. Basic density and MOE were lower on the warmer, lower rainfall site.