The loss of valuable fruit and nut germplasm is a worldwide concern and the need to preserve and protect this precious heritage from erosion is fundamental. The research was carried on in 2 protected areas of Piemonte (Northern Italy), rich in wilderness and biodiversity, in order to explore the local fruit genetic diversity, witness of the fruit culture of the past. Accessions of chestnut (Castanea sativa Miller), apple (Malus x domestica Borkh.), pear (Pyrus communis L.), plum (Prunus domestica L.) have been described in situ and, most of them, collected ex situ. DNA analysis was applied to characterize and identify the sampled material and to evidence eventual synonymies and homonymies. Furthermore the biometric and quality traits of the fruit were determined. The study allowed the rediscovery of a group of accessions particularly appreciated for valuable traits, suitable for the reintroduction in culture and the sustainable development of the territory. This ancient germplasm represents an opportunity to use and exploit it in terms of fruit production, but also as a traditional food in ethnic gastronomy, and as an ecological component in the frame of the restoration of the traditional landscapes and sustainable rural development.

Fruit genetic resources rediscovery and management in Northern Italy natural areas:Capanne di Marcarolo Regional Park and Val Grande National Park

BECCARO, GABRIELE LORIS;MELLANO, Maria Gabriella;BOUNOUS, Giancarlo
2008-01-01

Abstract

The loss of valuable fruit and nut germplasm is a worldwide concern and the need to preserve and protect this precious heritage from erosion is fundamental. The research was carried on in 2 protected areas of Piemonte (Northern Italy), rich in wilderness and biodiversity, in order to explore the local fruit genetic diversity, witness of the fruit culture of the past. Accessions of chestnut (Castanea sativa Miller), apple (Malus x domestica Borkh.), pear (Pyrus communis L.), plum (Prunus domestica L.) have been described in situ and, most of them, collected ex situ. DNA analysis was applied to characterize and identify the sampled material and to evidence eventual synonymies and homonymies. Furthermore the biometric and quality traits of the fruit were determined. The study allowed the rediscovery of a group of accessions particularly appreciated for valuable traits, suitable for the reintroduction in culture and the sustainable development of the territory. This ancient germplasm represents an opportunity to use and exploit it in terms of fruit production, but also as a traditional food in ethnic gastronomy, and as an ecological component in the frame of the restoration of the traditional landscapes and sustainable rural development.
2008
First Symposium on Horticulture in Europe
Vienna
17-20 febbraio
First Symposium on Horticulture in Europe
ISHS
274
274
Castanea sativa
Gabriele Loris Beccaro; Maria Gabriella Mellano; Giancarlo Bounous
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Utilizza questo identificativo per citare o creare un link a questo documento: https://hdl.handle.net/2318/76561
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