With the increasing importance of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) sequencing, the genomic-based approach is becoming a promising strategy to dissect the molecular domestication mechanism of complex traits in economically important trees (e.g., in terms of fruit quality, shoot architecture, yield, resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses).

Currently, several genetic and genomic research studies discussing tree plants have emerged. These studies provide an unprecedented opportunity to accelerate the molecular breeding program. However, there is a need for research analyzing genomic data that can provide insights related to the targets of domestication during breeding and the evolution of natural trait adaptations. Moreover, further studies should be conducted to discuss future directions of integrating multiple omics to identify key candidates to accelerate the breeding process in trees.

The aim of this Special Issue is to focus on the molecular mechanisms of key traits in economically important trees. Submissions can include woody plants that are used for producing ornaments, timber, fragrances, oil products or other industrial materials. We welcome original research and review articles discussing different aspects, including genetic characterization, large-scale population genomics and quantitative genomics analyses. Research relevant to the genotype, biotic or abiotic environment and their interaction with development and growth in trees are within the scope of this Special Issue. Studies integrating a combination of genomics and functional characterization are also welcome.

Potential topics include but are not limited to the following:

• Large-scale genomics to characterize the formation of economic traits in tree species
• Genome-wide analysis of genetic variations in tree species
• Population genomics analyses in tree species (e.g, restriction site associated DNA Sequencing (RAD-seq), genome-wide association analysis, quantitative trait loci (QTL) analysis)
• Tissue-specific transcriptomics underlying plant secondary metabolic pathway, and flower and fruit development
• Genome-wide identification of long and small non-coding ribonucleic acid (RNAs) in tree species
• Molecular genetics to understand domestication of key economic traits in tree species
• Genomics studies of plant-microbe interactions in tree species
• Identification of genes directly linked with agronomical traits
• Functional investigation of genotype/phenotype relationships in tree species
• Characterization of metabolites that are associated with economic traits in tree species
• Genome-wide analysis of gene families that are associated with stress tolerance and economic traits in tree species