SITE-FITNESS AND GROWTH-RATE SELECTION OF EUCALYPTUS FOR BIOMASS PRODUCTION

Calorespirometric investigation of the metabolism and temperature resp onses of tissues from Eucalyptus trees can be used to identify plants with superior growth characteristics. Measurements of the metabolic he at rate, rate of CO2 evolution and O-2 uptake over a range of temperat ures are analyzed with a mechanistic model of plant growth to allow ea rly selection of superior trees. This analysis provides information ab out indexes of genetic characteristics to use in breeding programs and guidelines for matching trees to appropriate climatic conditions. The se procedures can enhance the rate of production of biomass by shorten ing the time to harvest and can increase total economic returns.