Genetic resources of Pistacia vera L. in Central Asia

Abstract

Pistacia vera L. is grown as an economically valuable crop in a number of semi-arid regions worldwide. However, the species remains quite underutilized when considering its wide native range and inherent genetic diversity. Central Asia represents a large and diverse region where a wealth of P. vera genetic resources exists. Much of this region, which is the center of diversity and/or the center of origin of many important crops, has been inaccessible to the western world for centuries. Since the break up of the Soviet Union, Central Asia has become increasingly open and opportunities for reciprocal germplasm exchange and scientific collaborations are growing. To bring increased attention to the valuable P. vera genetic resources endemic to this region, and to promote its better utilization, management, and preservation, a description and history of the species from a Central Asian perspective, along with recent and ongoing activities, are discussed here.

Survey of ex situ fruit and leaf volatiles from several Pistacia cultivars grown in California

“…Researchers have recently reported investigations into expanding the number of cultivars for use by the pistachio industry for production and marketing reasons 2. Additionally, dependence on a single cultivar for crop production has raised concerns regarding crop vulnerability to insect pests and diseases 3…”

Essential oil yield and composition of Pistacia vera ‘Kerman’ fruits, peduncles and leaves grown in California

“…Pistacia vera L. (Anacardiaceae), commonly known as pistachio, is an agricultural product cultivated in semi‐arid regions worldwide 1. Iran is the major cultivator, producing approximately 230 000 metric tons annually,2 followed by the United States, which produced 139 000 metric tons in 2008 and generated an annual revenue of more than $ 539 million 3.…”

“…Commercial production of pistachios in California is effectively based on one cultivar, Kerman. Dependence on a singular genetic line has been shown to render a crop vulnerable to new diseases as well as native insect pests 1. However, efforts are under way to diversify and introduce a range of other cultivars.…”

The trnL (UAA)‐trnF (GAA) intergenic spacer is a robust marker of green pea (Pisum sativum L.) adulteration in economically valuable pistachio nuts (Pistacia vera L.)

“…Pistachio ( Pistacia vera L.) is an economically valuable culinary nut species, ranking fifth in global production (1.1 million tonnes) among tree nuts after cashew nut (3.9 million tonnes), walnut (3.8 million tonnes), chestnut (2.3 million tonnes), and almond (2.2 million tonnes) . The pistachio tree originated in western Asia but it is cultivated today in many parts of the world including Europe and the Americas . Pistachio nuts have a pleasant taste and aroma.…”