Genetic Characterization of the Apple Germplasm Collection in Central Italy: The Value of Local Varieties.

ABSTRACT: In the last 50 years, intensive farming systems have been boosted by modern agricultural techniques and newly bred cultivars. The massive use of few and related cultivars has dramatically reduced the apple genetic diversity of local varieties, confined to marginal areas. In Central Italy a limited spread of intensive fruit orchards has made it possible to preserve much of the local genetic diversity, but at the same time the coexistence of both modern and ancient varieties has generated some confusion. The characterization and clarification of possible synonyms, homonyms, and/or labeling errors in old local genetic resources is an issue in the conservation and management of living collections. 175 accessions provided by 10 apple collections, mainly local varieties, some of unknown origin,

SUBMITTER: Marconi G 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6191466 | biostudies-literature | 2018

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature