Genetic variability and conservation of progenies (Myracrodruon urundeuva allemão) in the South Mato Grosso, Brazil
Abstract
Abstract This study aimed to evaluate the genetic variability and conservation potential of Myracrodruon urundeuva in the face of climate change. The study was conducted at the UFGD Experimental Farm in Dourados, MS, with 77 open-pollinated progenies originating from Selvíria, MS. The methodology involved measuring survival, height, diameter, and branching in 2024, with data analyzed using the REML/BLUP method and Tocher clustering to estimate genetic parameters at the juvenile stage. The results indicated no significant effect of progeny, reflecting low genetic variability detectable at an early stage. Individual heritabilities were low (0.01 to 0.06), while the plot effect was significant, indicating a strong environmental influence. Survival stood out with the highest coefficient of genetic variation (11.56%). Despite low initial accuracy (0.16 to 0.28), the genetic correlations between height and diameter were positive and high (rg= 0.78). Tocher’s clustering revealed the formation of four distinct groups, indicating the existence of genetic divergence among matrices. The ecological relevance of this plant lies in identifying sufficient genetic diversity to support conservation and pre-breeding strategies in the Cerrado. Maintaining this genetic base is crucial to ensuring the species’ adaptive resilience and guiding controlled crossbreeding aimed at the restoration and sustainable use of regional biodiversity.