Advances in Germplasm Conservation and Genetic Improvement in Grapes
A special issue of Horticulturae (ISSN 2311-7524). This special issue belongs to the section "Viticulture".
Deadline for manuscript submissions: 30 June 2026 | Viewed by 26
Special Issue Editors
Interests: Vitis vinifera; genetic diversity
Special Issue Information
Dear Colleagues,
Grapevine (Vitis vinifera L.) is one of the most economically significant and widely cultivated fruit crops worldwide. In recent years, the conservation of grapevine genetic resources has become a central focus in viticultural research, particularly in light of increasing environmental pressures and evolving market demands. To safeguard genetic diversity and prevent its erosion, the establishment of germplasm collections across different regions is essential. These living repositories serve not only to preserve native varieties and valuable genetic traits but also to provide fundamental material for breeding programs aimed at improving fruit quality and enhancing resilience to biotic and abiotic stressors.
The management of extensive germplasm collections is inherently complex and demands the use of advanced tools such as molecular markers and genomic analysis. These technologies enable the identification and exploitation of favorable alleles linked to key agronomic traits, including yield stability, disease resistance, and stress tolerance.
Modern grapevine breeding is structured around two complementary strategies: the evaluation of existing genetic diversity within the Vitis genus and the development of new genotypes through targeted crosses. Both approaches are increasingly supported by detailed knowledge of genotype–phenotype associations and the genomic regions underlying important traits. As climate change accelerates and regulatory frameworks evolve, the integration of genetic conservation and innovation is becoming critical to ensure the long-term sustainability and competitiveness of the viticulture sector.
Dr. Yolanda Ferradás
Prof. Dr. María Victoria González
Guest Editors
Manuscript Submission Information
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Keywords
- Vitis vinifera
- genetic diversity
- climate-resilient breeding
- biotic stress tolerance
- molecular markers
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