Paraná Pine (Araucaria angustifolia): The Most Planted Native Forest Tree Species in Argentina

Parana pine has a marginal distribution in Argentina; however, it is the native species most planted in the country. Its uses, cultural meaning, and current conservation status are summarized in this chapter, together with a brief history of its use in productive plantations. The reproductive biology of the species has a deep effect on the conservation and use of its genetic resources. Therefore, limitations for the pollination and seed formation are detailed together with information on pollen dispersion and variation of productivity through time and its relationship with climatic variables and seed production. Genetic variability of natural populations was studied by means of AFLP genetic markers. The breeding and conservation strategies for the species are delineated, also describing the outstanding case of a multi-provenance plantation over 70 years old. Provenance tests are revised together with their conclusions on genetic variation in quantitative traits. Base, selected, breeding, and propagation populations for an incipient improvement program in Argentina are defined. Grafts of selected individuals were used to install clonal seed orchards, alongside corresponding progeny tests. Final concerns and actions for conservation are discussed.