ACCORDO CNR/ASM. Titolo progetto: Valorizzazione delle risorse genetiche locali di specie agroforestali: il caso studio della Juglans regia L. in Moldova ed Italia (biennio 2015/2016)

The main objective of this study is to assess the genetic diversity of walnut in Moldova using morphological, biochemical and genetic approaches, to be compared with genetic variability of walnut in Italy and to establish the possible relationship among the two gene pools. The research involves the development and application of molecular markers for identification of varieties and Moldovian provenances and the comparison with the genetic diversity of germplasm from Italy; especially to assess variability in selected genotypes adapted to cold-wet, cold-dry, and hot-wet locations; biochemical investigations for the characterization of fruit quality (content in fatty acids and tocopherols) and analysis of morphological, physiological and adaptive sensing of climatic and ecological parameters in situ, in active collaboration between Italian and Moldovian researchers and local rural communities. The application of these approaches will allow the characterization of ecotypes/genotypes adapted to the environmental conditions of each region, with a maximum of agronomic traits and superior quality fruit to be used either as a source for seed orchards or as new cultivars to be multiplied by grafting. The chemical components of the fruit will allow the identification of populations that are qualitatively distinguished, in agreement with the original agro-ecological characteristics. This could allow a better utilization of the production according to the interests of farmers.