Landscape genomics

The LIFE Programme is the European Union’s instrument to finance projects for the conservation of the environment, biodiversity and the fight against climate change. The aim of the LIFE SySTEMiC Project (Close-to-nature foreSt SusTainablE Management practices under Climate Changes) is to use the “modeling tool” based on genetic diversity to identify the best silviculture practices to protect our forests in times of climate change. The basic idea is simple: the greater the genetic diversity of trees in a forest, the more likely it is that some trees have genetic characteristics that make them more adaptable to climate change, thus increasing the resistance and resilience of the forest system. Based on these premises, the main objectives of the project have been the following: To study the relationships between forest management and genetic diversity for eight forest tree species in three European countries (Croatia, Italy, Slovenia) to identify the silvicultural systems that maintain high levels of genetic diversity. Development of an innovative Genetic Biodiversity and Silvicultural model (GenBioSilvi) based on the combination of advanced landscape genomics, applied genetics and silvicultural models to support sustainable forest management. Disseminate the knowledge of the method across Europe and transfer its use in forestry practice by involving different types of stakeholders. The Web page of LIFE SySTEMiC project, including detailed protocols: https://www.lifesystemic.eu/