Crop wild relatives represent an essential reservoir of untapped genetic diversity for crop improvement. Despite sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) being an important oilseed crop, its wild relatives remain underutilized for characterization and breeding efforts. To comprehensively assess their potential, a field evaluation was conducted during the kharif seasons of 2022 and 2023 on 53 accessions belonging to seven wild, three S. indicum accessions, and three cultivated species. Thirty-four agro-morphological traits (18 qualitative, 16 quantitative) were characterized under field conditions. Substantial variability was observed across key traits, including plant height, branching patterns, leaf morphology, corolla structure and pigmentation, capsule size and shape, seed characteristics, and yield-contributing attributes. Multivariate analyses revealed significant clustering patterns, and several traits, notably capsule width, capsule length, corolla length, seed area and test weight, exhibited high heritability. Importantly, certain wild accessions such as IC621506 and IC557250 (early maturity), IC409053, IC204658, IC208661 and IC208662 (greater capsule number), and IC208661, IC208662 and IC409053 (superior seed yield per plant) outperformed cultivated sesame species. These novel accessions constitute valuable genetic resources for broadening the cultivated gene pool and enhancing breeding strategies. This study provides the first comprehensive characterization of morphological diversity in wild sesame species, underscoring their potential utility in developing high-yielding, resilient varieties that can address future agricultural challenges.

National genebanks hold vast crop diversity that could support more resilient agri-food systems, yet their collections remain underutilized due to weak linkages with users. To address this, Kenya’s national genebank piloted the Germplasm User Group (GUG) model to facilitate structured engagement with farmers, researchers and other stakeholders. The objective of this study is to gain understanding on the feasibility and utility of this approach in supporting farmers in accessing and uncovering new and promising crop diversity. In this activity, 5 participatory variety selection (PVS) field days were held where farmers evaluated 2,041 sorghum accessions, out of which 393 accessions were selected as having farmer-preferred traits. Results demonstrate that farmer selection was non-random, as it resulted in accessions with significantly different trait profiles. Useful traits such as tolerance to striga and early maturity were identified. Seeds of 51 accessions were shared with 514 households belonging to 26 GUGs for on-farm evaluation. Out of these, farmers selected 46 accessions for seed saving and showed significantly greater preference for genebank accessions compared to the check variety. Partnerships were developed with sorghum breeding and research teams, farmer groups, extension service and marketers. This study has highlighted the value of agro-morphological characterization and passport data in assembling germplasm subsets with useful traits. The study has further shown that PVS and farmer-managed evaluation provide a powerful pathway through which farmers can discover and access the otherwise ‘hidden’ diversity conserved in genebank seed collections.

The global ex situ conservation system reflects the collective efforts of individual genebanks, each influenced by its unique history, opportunities for acquisition and user demands. As a result, acquisition activities in most genebanks have been opportunistic rather than strategic to support representation of national crop diversity or driven by clearly identified conservation priorities.

The objective of this study was to characterize the composition of national collections in 20 countries within the global ex situ conservation system. It assessed the representation of crop genetic diversity that originated nationally within the global system and evaluated the composition balance, as it relates to duplication and gaps in conservation. Across these 20 countries, numerous genebanks are conserving large number of accessions for only a few genera, while a much smaller number of genebanks are conserving fewer than 10 accessions from a broader range of genera. The findings indicate that ex situ conservation, both nationally and globally, has significant potential duplications and gaps in the genetic resource coverage.

Individual institutes in the global system must carefully reconsider the composition of their collections, especially given the significant costs and limited financial and human resources available for long-term ex situ conservation. As national genebanks and the global system become increasingly important resources for the future, it will be essential for genebanks to ensure that the composition of their collections meets future demands.

Mulberry (Morus spp.), a key moriculture crop, serves a dual role: its leaves are indispensable as exclusive fodder for silkworms, while its fruits, particularly in species such as Morus nigra, Morus laevigata and Morus macroura, are valued as functional foods enriched with antioxidants and vitamins. The genus exhibits remarkable natural chromosome-level variation ranging from 14 to 308, which offers a unique system to investigate the impact of genome expansion on plant function. Herein, the influence of different cytotypes on functional traits associated with cell division, cell size and biomass metrics was studied. Principal component analysis revealed that tetraploid (4x), followed by triploid (3x), exhibits the most favourable cytotype, suggesting a vigorous and balanced expression of polyploid advantage. However, downsizing of many key parameters with increasing ploidy levels was also evident, predominantly at 22-ploid (22x). Furthermore, the estimated plasticity index reveals that the lower limit of cell size and rate-limited attributes influenced the loss of growth superiority of the extreme ploidy level; in turn, data imply the large-genome constraint in mulberry, as the consequence of the functioning of a large genome is likely expensive. Therefore, the present study emphasizes that the benchmarking of ploidy levels for the selection of parental material is essential for improving cellular function and developmental efficiency, thereby optimizing leaf yield for the future sustainability of sericulture.

Flower colour is a key trait shaping pollination, reproduction and plant–environment interactions. In arid ecosystems, it may also signal adaptations to heat and (Ultraviolet) UV stress. Tecomella undulata, a threatened keystone tree of the Indian Desert, exhibits striking flower colour polymorphism with yellow, orange and red morphs. This study tested whether artificial intelligence (AI) can reliably classify these morphs, thereby supporting conservation efforts. Field surveys were conducted across natural populations in the Thar Desert. An accessible no-code AI platform (Google Teachable Machine) was used for supervised classification of flower and tree images, with unsupervised clustering applied for validation. The AI classifier achieved high accuracy in distinguishing morphs at both flower and tree scales. Morphs showed consistent separation, with orange functioning as an intermediate form. Despite red morphs being more frequent, the presence of yellow and orange morphs contributes essential functional diversity important for pollinator interactions and reproductive resilience. This study demonstrates that no-code AI provides an effective, scalable approach to documenting intraspecific variation in threatened species. By enabling rapid and reliable identification of flower colour morphs, the approach offers practical applications for ex situ conservation, restoration and morph-aware biodiversity management in T. undulata and other arid-zone trees.

Good keeping quality (KQ) is a critical trait for sustaining potato cultivation under subtropical conditions, where post-harvest losses significantly impact profitability. To support breeding for improved KQ, a targeted evaluation of variability in key contributing traits was undertaken using a diverse germplasm set of 540 accessions of Solanum tuberosum ssp. tuberosum. The study utilized data from 2010 to 2020, incorporating control varieties Kufri Pukhraj, Kufri Dewa and Kufri Ashoka. Evaluation was performed using an augmented design with appropriate data transformations to mitigate annual environmental variations treated as block effects. The adjusted means revealed substantial phenotypic variation in sprouting (34.93%), firmness (20.77%), weight loss (27.32%), rottage (75.43%) and total weight loss (25.44%). Significant genotypic differences were observed for total weight loss and sprouting. Principal component analysis reduced data dimensionality, with the first three components accounting for 86.3% of the total variance. Biplots were generated using eigenvalues and eigenvectors to visualize the distribution of accessions based on KQ traits. Genotypes clustered in favourable zones on the biplots, enabling the identification of 18 superior keeping germplasm accessions: CP3151, CP3134, CP3117, CP3208, CP3211, CP3590, CP3515, CP3702, CP3336, CP3661, CP3514, CP4214, CP4229, CP4514, CP3588, CP3639, CP3795 and Kufri Dewa. The findings identify valuable parental material for breeding programs targeting improved post-harvest resilience in potato cultivars suited to the subtropical plains.

This study examined data from 20 national genebanks in Latin America and the Caribbean, Africa, the Near East and Asia to identify similarities and differences in genebank operations and processes, funding and facilities, as well as opportunities to strengthen their contributions to the global system of crop conservation and use. Data on genebank performance metrics were collected and used to assess compliance with FAO Genebank Standards. This enabled the analysis of trends in ex situ conservation of major food crops, locally important crops and crop wild relatives across national genebanks and the identification of shared challenges and opportunities to improve genebank operations and address funding gaps. All genebanks in the study failed to meet quality management standards and performance goals for the effective management of crop collections. The most pressing challenge for all national genebanks was the management and safety duplication of highly diverse collections in both seed and field genebanks, often with limited information available to guide best conservation practices. A further critical constraint was the fluctuating and often insufficient funding to support the wide range of tasks needed to secure and use this valuable national crop germplasm.

Shanlan upland rice, as a unique local rice germplasm resource in Hainan comprises abundant genetic diversity. One hundred and sixty two Shanlan upland rice accessions collected from diverse ecological regions in Hainan were systematically characterized based on 11 agronomic traits. The rich genetic diversity was confirmed by phenotypic data from two consecutive years (2023 and 2024). Coefficient of variation ranged from 14.11% to 46.04% in 2023 and from 11.45% to 44.82% in 2024, with panicle-related traits (number of primary branches, grain number of primary branches, number of secondary branches, grain number of secondary branches and grain number per main panicle) exhibiting particularly high variation. Correlation analysis revealed highly significant synergistic effects among yield-related traits. Cluster analysis of the 162 accessions consistently classified them into five major groups across both growing seasons. Through grain number per main panicle and seed setting rate investigation, three excellent resources were selected that demonstrated stable and superior performance in both seasons. Notably, Line 69 exhibited outstanding “large panicles with high seed-setting rate,” producing 261.4 and 305 grains per main panicle in 2023 and 2024, respectively, with seed-setting rates reaching 93.79% and 90.07%. This study presents phenotypic data for Shanlan upland rice, offers high-quality breeding materials for subsequent research, and lays a theoretical groundwork for conserving and exploiting Hainan’s rice resources.

The medicinal significance of Phlomis olivieri Benth. and the unknown diversity among its distinct populations prompted the investigation. The primary objective of the study was to analyse the components of essential oils (EOs) derived from the above-ground parts of 10 wild populations of P. olivieri Benth. (Lamiaceae) originating from different regions of the Iranian plateau. The EOs were subjected to analysis using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS). In total, 20 compounds were identified in the oils, with a relatively high content variation. The major components of the EO were (E)-caryophyllene (2.51–54.48%), germacrene D (6.25–53.51%), spathulenol (4.38–23.41%), bicyclogermacrene (3.97–16.41%), α-pinene (0.07–11.32%), caryophyllene oxide (0.28–9.57%) and germacrene B (2.21–9.13%). To assess chemical variability, the EO components were categorized using hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA), which revealed two main clusters. HCA of the EO data revealed two main clusters, and principal component analysis corroborated this grouping. Identifying compounds such as isospathulenol, (2E)-2-dodecen-1-ol and undecanal in this species for the first time adds to its chemical profile. Furthermore, the discovery of a substantial presence of (E)-caryophyllene and germacrene D in select populations underscores the high chemical diversity among these populations.

Noug (Guizotia abyssinica L.) is among the key oilseed crops of Ethiopia and India and is valued for its tolerance to drought, with its very nutrient-dense oil being rich in essential fatty acids, protein and minerals. Despite the economic potential of noug, its production is limited by biological factors such as self-incompatibility, seed shattering, parasitic weeds and disease susceptibility. This review consolidates advances in the past decade, highlighting the transition from conventional breeding to the application of genomic tools. We critically assess how the development of self-compatible lines, transcriptome sequencing and linkage mapping are being used to produce improved germplasm. There is, however, a huge gap between research products and farmer-preferred variety development. This review suggests an integrative approach that brings genomics, phenomics and participatory breeding to realize the faster generation of high-yielding, durable noug cultivars. This is an important strategy to ensure that noug is a sustainable crop that ensures food security and financial empowerment of Ethiopian smallholder farmers.

Jhum cultivation is a traditional agricultural practice, which continues to support the livelihood of indigenous communities in Northeast India while also serving as an important on-farm conservation of crop genetic resources. In Mon district of Nagaland, over 93% of the population depends on jhum for subsistence. This study documents traditional rice cultivation practices, associated cultural values, socio-economy and conservation status of landrace rice under jhum farming systems. Rice germplasm collection and semi-structured personal interviews were conducted across 24 villages, involving 120 farmers in 8 administrative blocks of Mon district. Results from this study document the critical role of traditional jhum cultivation in livelihood generation and socio-cultural life of the Konyak community living in Mon district. The study resulted in the collection of 147 traditional rice accessions. Some of the landrace rice were linked with cultural practices, medicinal uses and ritual significance. Rice such as ‘Vumchong’ and ‘Wang-tsahyan’ holds deep historical and ceremonial importance. Pests and diseases pressure, limited external inputs and climatic factors were some concerns that influence rice production. However, farmers continue to safeguard their unique germplasm through traditional methods of seed selection and preservation. This research underscores rich genetic diversity conserved through traditional agricultural practice and the urgent need for conservation, participatory breeding and policy interventions.

Snapmelon is an indigenous crop of Indian origin that has contributed resistance genes against major melon diseases. Despite its importance, Snapmelon is an under-utilized crop, and its cultivation may be limited due to its very short post-harvest life, fruit-bursting on maturity and very thin pericarp that is unsuitable for long-distance transportation. Studies on the inheritance of melon fruit bursting are scanty, and according to the available literature, it is due to complementary gene action. The inheritance of fruit bursting in Snapmelon in our work was studied through an inter-botanical cross between Snapmelon (IC632170, bursting fruit type) and Chandalak melon (Kashi Madhu, non-bursting fruit type). F2 and backcross populations were developed, and all three populations were evaluated for fruit bursting under polyhouse conditions for two seasons. Chi-square analysis indicated non-significant deviations from the expected 3:1 Mendelian ratio for non-bursting: bursting type fruits in the F2 population, suggesting the monogenic control of fruit bursting. The backcross with parent Kashi Madhu exhibited 1:0 (non-bursting: bursting) ratios, while the backcross with parent IC632170 revealed 1:1 (non-bursting: bursting) ratio. Selective genotyping in the F2:3 population of Kashi Madhu x IC632170 using 86 polymorphic Simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers revealed the association of the marker CMCT505 for fruit bursting at maturity. Knowledge on the genetic basis of fruit bursting is crucial for designing effective breeding strategies aimed at developing non-bursting Snapmelon varieties suitable for commercial cultivation and improved post-harvest handling.

The conservation of plant genetic resources for food and agriculture (PGRFA) is essential for global food and nutrition security, climate resilience and sustainable agriculture. This study presents a monitoring and evaluation (M&E) framework applied across 20 countries in the Global South to assess the state of ex situ PGRFA conservation. Using mixed methods, we collected quantitative and qualitative data on genebank performance, validated operational status, and identified specific needs of genebanks. Our findings demonstrate the practical use of this M&E framework for genebanks to assess efficiency and effectiveness in genebank management, while also guiding targeted capacity development and context-specific interventions to address persistent challenges. We recommend adopting the approaches described in this study, including genebank reviews and the review checklist, to support more systematic and evidence-based assessment of genebanks. Aligning national efforts with global conservation objectives will help generate actionable recommendations to strengthen genebanks and ensure the long-term conservation and availability of PGRFA.

Legumes are key to improving food security due to their nutritional value. In Togo, however, the diversity of local legumes, particularly Kersting’s groundnut (Macrotyloma geocarpum), is rapidly declining. The ethnobotanical survey aimed to assess the geographical distribution, varietal diversity, uses, and sociodemographic characteristics of Kersting's groundnut producers in the five administratives regions and four big agroecological zones of Togo. Semi-structured interviews, group discussions, and field visits were conducted. A total of 238 producers were identified across 132 villages. Descriptive statistics, correlation and correspondence analysis were used to explore relationships between varietal diversity, socio-demographic factors, and regional uses. The crop was found to be most prevalent in northern Togo, particularly the Kara region (60.5%), which belongs to the dry savannah zone. In contrast, production is almost nonexistent in the coastal and subequatorial southern regions. Most producers were women (56.7%), and 47% reported having no formal education. The number of varieties grown per household was positively correlated with farming experience. Varietal preferences varied by gender and ethnic group. While consumption and sale remain the primary motivations for cultivation, ritual and medicinal uses were significantly associated with ethnic groups and regions. These findings underscore the combined influence of ecological conditions and ethnocultural heritage on varietal distribution. They offer a valuable basis for developing strategies to conserve and promote Kersting’s groundnut in Togo.

Ensuring seed viability over decades is a central challenge in ex situ conservation of plant genetic resources. Standard germination tests, while effective, are destructive and fail to detect early molecular damage that precedes viability loss. RNA integrity has emerged as a promising biomarker due to the inherent vulnerability of mRNA to oxidative degradation in the dry state. In this study, we identified and validated seed-stored mRNAs in common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris), a major crop species extensively represented in global germplasm collections, and investigated transcript degradation patterns in seeds conserved for up to 30 years. Using a comparative genomics approach, we identified 107 P. vulgaris orthologs of long-lived rice mRNAs, many encoding proteins involved in RNA stabilization, oxidoreductase activity, and primary metabolism. Thirty transcripts were validated by RT-qPCR, and the integrity of nine was assessed using paired primers targeting 5′ and 3′ regions. Degradation followed a consistent 5′→3′ pattern, particularly in longer transcripts, and correlated strongly with germination power. Predictive performance varied across transcripts: PSMA4, SMP1, and TRA2 consistently showed strong correlations with viability, whereas others were less informative. The ΔΔCq metric improved resolution by detecting degradation asymmetry. Samples included a genetically diverse panel of conserved, regenerated, and artificially aged accessions, enhancing applicability to real-world genebank conditions. Artificial aging intensified degradation signatures and mirrored patterns observed in naturally aged seeds. Altogether, our results indicate transcript integrity as a molecular biomarker for seed viability, supporting the development of robust molecular tools to inform decision-making and regeneration planning in long-term germplasm conservation.

Genus Citrus L. (Family: Rutaceae), thrives best in tropical/sub-tropical climates, finds a perfect ecosystem in Meghalaya (home for National Citrus Gene Sanctuary), a North-Eastern Indian State. This state harbors rich diversity of Citrus species; however, they are under severe threat due to anthropogenic activities. Hence, present study was undertaken during 2021–22 to explore, collect, characterize and document Citrus species diversity for their conservation and posterity use. Total of 57 accessions belonging to 13 different Citrus species were collected and 48 traits (16 quantitative and 32 qualitative) were recorded for each accession, using IPGRI descriptors (1999). Garo and Khasi hills are hotspots for Citrus diversity, harboring a significant number of citrus species. Notably, South Garo Hills and West Khasi Hills emerged as critical regions for the conservation of wild Citrus species, particularly C. indica in South Garo Hills. Most species exhibited large leaf length (>75 mm), whereas, wild species C. latipes had smaller leaves (29.7 mm). Cluster analysis formed the dendrogram by using jaccard’s similarity index based UPGMA method with six clusters and showed higher levels of complexity between Citrus species at inter and intra-cluster levels. PCA analysis explained about 73.3% cumulative genetic variation present among them and the first three PCs as 37.7, 20.5 and 15.1%, respectively. Fruit-related traits (size, shape, colour, apex shape, surface texture, rind thickness, axis, pulp colour and firmness) were identified as diagnostic character for distinguishing different Citrus species or major Citrus fruit groups and also useful for field identification during exploration trips and curators in Genebank management.