This book is the first comprehensive volume on conifers detailing their genomes variations
and evolution. The book begins with general information about conifers such as taxonomy
geography reproduction life history and social and economic importance. Then topics
discussed include the full genome sequence complex traits phenotypic and genetic variations
landscape genomics and forest health and conservation. This book also synthesizes the research
included to provide a bigger picture and suggest an evolutionary trajectory. As a large plant
family conifers are an important part of economic botany. The group includes the pines
spruces firs larches yews junipers cedars cypresses and sequoias. Of the phylum
Coniferophyta conifers typically bear cones and evergreen leaves. Recently there has been
much data available in conifer genomics with the publication of several crop and non-crop
genome sequences. In addition to their economic importance conifers are an important habitat
for humans and animals especially in developing parts of the world. The application of
genomics for improving the productivity of conifer crops holds great promise to help provide
resources for the most needy in the world.
