Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Tree selection is a key component of forest genetic improvement. Superior individuals are selected in natural stands or plantations based on specific phenotypic criteria.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
- Plus Trees are outstanding phenotypes selected in wild forests or plantations based on superior growth rate, straightness, wood quality, and pest resistance, without genetic progeny testing.
- Candidate Trees are trees chosen for detailed comparison against surrounding dominant trees before they are officially designated as plus trees.
- Elite Trees are plus trees whose superior genetic performance has been proven through progeny testing.
- Clones are genetically identical individuals derived from vegetative propagation.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Trees selected and graded based on phenotypic characteristics are called plus trees.