Scientists up a gum tree over Eucalyptus

SYDNEY – Australian and international scientists have launched a search for the genetic secrets of the humble Eucalyptus tree, which is native to Australia and highly prized as a source of fibre for producing paper.

The Australian government-backed Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation said yesterday that an international effort had begun to decode the Eucalyptus genome. The Eucalyptus tree is Australia’s contribution to the world’s forest industries.With over 700 different species, eucalypts include some of the fastest growing woody plants in the world.Covering about 18 million hectares in 90 countries, they are one of the most widely used plantation forest trees.Nampa-ReutersThe Eucalyptus tree is Australia’s contribution to the world’s forest industries.With over 700 different species, eucalypts include some of the fastest growing woody plants in the world.Covering about 18 million hectares in 90 countries, they are one of the most widely used plantation forest trees.Nampa-Reuters