Jeju region forest biodiversity promotion, finding answers through genetic diversity analysis!

The National Institute of Forest Science (Director Yong-Kwan Kim) of the Korea Forest Service announced on Monday the 31st that it has established scientific standards for the conservation of the hornbeam and red oak trees native to the Seogwipo area of ​​Jeju.

Genetic diversity is an important element of biodiversity along with species diversity and ecosystem diversity. In particular, genetic diversity, which includes evolutionary factors of species, can be quantitatively compared and can provide an important standard for establishing the size and management plan of protected areas.

The Myrica rubra (Lour.) Siebold & Zucc.), which has high value as food, medicine, and ornamental tree,  is a rare plant that grows only near low-lying streams on the southern slope of Hallasan Mountain. The Myrica rubra habitat in Seogwipo is considered a single group, and genetic diversity analysis confirmed that it requires individual protection.

The evergreen large tree, Quercus acuta  Thunb., is native to the southern part of Korea and Jeju Island. Its trunk grows straight and is highly valuable as timber, and it is a recommended species for afforestation to prepare for climate change. The analysis of genetic diversity of Quercus acuta showed that the Jeju population has high genetic diversity and is therefore considered worthy of designation as a forest genetic resource protection area.

Kim Jun-hyeok, a researcher at the Forest Life Information Research Division of the National Institute of Forest Science, Korea Forest Service, said, “Genetic diversity is an essential element for biodiversity conservation,” and added, “We will continue to work to establish scientific conservation strategies and conserve forest life resources in preparation for abnormal climates.”