A comparison of three methods of wood density assessment in a Pinus elliottii progeny test

Three methods of determining wood density of 15 Pinus elliottii Engelm. families in a progeny test were compared. The first was based on a segment cut from a disc, the second on an 8 mm increment core and the third on pin penetration with the Pilodyn instrument. Each assesses a different density characteristic of the tree. The segment provides the most representative sample but is destructive and time consuming; the Pilodyn samples only the outside rings but is very quick. There were highly significant correlations (r) between Pilodyn and segments and between cores and segments both at the individual tree (-0,67 and 0,65) and at the family (-0,87 and 0,78) levels. Equivalent individual tree correlation within families were very erratic. The Pilodyn is recommended as a useful intrument for ranking families for wood density in large provenance trials and progeny tests