Strategies for the conservation of a pioneer tree species, Populus nigra L., in Europe

Abstract

The European black poplar is a pioneer tree species of the riparian ecosystem. Its natural habitat is exposed to anthropogenic alteration. Overexploitation of the trees, and interaction with a narrow-based cultivated gene pool also contribute to the decline of the species. National programmes for the conservation of Populus nigra exist in most European countries, and it was elected as one of the pilot species in the EUFORGEN programme. The strategies developed in 17 European countries over the species range, and 3 years of collaborative efforts within the EUFORGEN P. nigra Network axe reviewed here. The conservation strategies need to be adapted to the biological characteristics and ecological requirements of black poplar. Applied conservation includes ex situ methods for the conservation of genotypes, and, for long-term gene conservation, in situ management of sites in relation to the preexisting natural reserves, or dynamic conservation in the framework of poplar breeding programmes. The social and cultural impact of poplars also interfere with applied conservation.