Accounting for competition in multi-environment tree genetic evaluations: a case study with hybrid pines

Key message A novel multi-environment competition individual-tree mixed model resulted in better fit, and greater individual narrow- broad-sense heritabilities than the without competition, notably for traits showing competition. In tests, proposed would allow tree breeders to select genotypes with best performance both additive direct breeding values, increasing forest productivity. ContextGenetic merit of trees is known be affected interact local effects as well changes across environmental conditions. Recent studies showed that genetic can affect variance bias its covariance values has been variable traits.AimsThe present paper extends a mixed-model methodology problem accounting set trials exploring impact on variances correlation.MethodsThe illustrated using data from two full-sib Pinus elliottii var. × caribaea hondurensis F1. Dispersion parameters (co)variance total were estimated diameter at breast height, stem straightness age 10.ResultsFor (diameter height height), gave fit simpler model. Accounting increased variance, reduced residual variances, did not change significantly across-site correlation. However, top 5% rankings differences.ConclusionWhen are strongly by inter-tree use analyses efficiently identify phenomenon general benefits fitting components open door basis competitiveness.