Quantitative trait loci influencing forking defects in an outbred pedigree of loblolly pine

The use of wood as an industrial raw material has led to development of plantation forestry, in which trees are planted, managed, and harvested as crops. The productivity of such plantations often exceeds that of lessintensively-managed forests, and land managers have the option of choosing specific planting stock to produce specific types of wood for industrial use.