New insights in conservation of Sophora toromiro (Phil.) Skottsb., emblematic species of the South Pacific

Abstract

This paper presents advances in a conservation and reintroduction program of Sophora toromiro (Phil.) Skottsb. A status quo of specimens growing in Chile is compiled and propagation of germplasm is performed by inter-specific grafts (scion and rootstock are different species). To date, over 300 grafts are ready for the establishment of a multipurpose Clonal Seed Orchard (CSO) with a germplasm collection based on three lines known as the National Botanic Garden of Viña del Mar (JBV), Goteborg (Got) and Titze (Tit). Additionally, the first controlled pollination seeds were obtained in order to understand basic aspects of reproductive biology. Activities and a work program to ensure gradual recovery of S. toromiro in Rapa Nui are identified. This is the second documented experience of rescuing a species listed as extinct in the wild by a traditional but effective technique in the field of horticulture, the first being made with Molokai koki‘o (Kokia cookei O. Deg).