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Advancement in Genetics, Biotechnology and Breeding of Tropical and Subtropical Fruit Crops

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A special issue of Horticulturae (ISSN 2311-7524). This special issue belongs to the section "Genetics, Genomics, Breeding, and Biotechnology (G2B2)".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (13 March 2026) | Viewed by 13610

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Prof. Dr. Xuming Huang

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Guest Editor

College of Horticulture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
Interests: Litchi; longan; grape; Calcium; photosynthesis; carbohydrates; water relation; shoot growth cycle; flowering; fruit development
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Dr. Renfang Zeng

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Guest Editor

College of Horticulture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
Interests: tropical and subtropical; fruit flowering regulation; shoot development; bud domancy

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Fruit trees are among the most economically significant crops globally, and research on these trees is carried out worldwide. However, compared with temperate deciduous fruit trees, the study of tropical and subtropical fruit trees remains relatively limited, despite their unique biological characteristics. For instance, most tropical and subtropical fruit trees are classified as evergreen, and their shoots can grow multiple times a year without substantial changes in their growth cycles. This phenomenon is a result of long-term natural selection and evolution. In recent years, an increasing number of tropical and subtropical evergreen fruit trees, such as bananas, citrus, litchi, and longan, have attracted considerable research interest.

This Special Issue, titled “Advancement in Genetics, Biotechnology And Breeding of Tropical and Subtropical Fruit Crops”, aims to present the latest research developments in the field, reported by researchers from around the globe. We welcome innovative articles pertaining to any aspect of tropical or subtropical fruit tree research.

Yours faithfully,
Prof. Dr. Xuming Huang
Dr. Renfang Zeng
Guest Editors

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Keywords

tropical and subtropical fruit
breeding
genetics
fruit growth and development
developmental biology
molecular biology techniques

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Published Papers (9 papers)

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Research

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20 pages, 8129 KB

Open AccessArticle

DlMYB108, a Novel R2R3-MYB Transcription Factor from Longan, Positively Regulates CBF Genes to Enhance Cold Stress Tolerance

by Dan Zhang, Liwen Xiao, Rui Wang, Chenbo Song, Yuanyan Zheng, Guibing Hu, Chengming Liu and Jiaxin Fu

Horticulturae 2026, 12(3), 263; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12030263 - 25 Feb 2026

Viewed by 567

Abstract

Longan (Dimocarpus longan Lour.) is highly sensitive to low temperature, which severely restricts its cultivation and industrial development. MYB transcription factors serve as key regulators in plant responses to cold stress. In this study, an R2R3-MYB gene DlMYB108 was cloned from ‘Shixia’ longan. Sequence analysis showed that DlMYB108 contains two typical MYB repeats and shares high homology with cold-responsive MYB108 proteins from other plants. Expression pattern analysis revealed that DlMYB108 is highly expressed in young leaves, which are more sensitive to cold stress, and is significantly induced by low-temperature treatment. Subcellular localization and transcriptional activation assays confirmed that DlMYB108 is a nuclear-localized transcriptional activator. Yeast one-hybrid and dual-luciferase assays demonstrated that DlMYB108 specifically binds to the promoters of DlCBF2 and DlCBF3 and activates their transcription. Heterologous expression of DlMYB108 in Arabidopsis significantly enhanced cold tolerance, accompanied by reduced ion leakage, malondialdehyde (MDA) content and reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation, as well as upregulated expression of CBF and cold-responsive genes. Collectively, DlMYB108 positively regulates longan cold tolerance through activating DlCBF2 and DlCBF3 expression, providing a valuable candidate gene for cold-tolerant longan breeding. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancement in Genetics, Biotechnology and Breeding of Tropical and Subtropical Fruit Crops)

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17 pages, 12156 KB

Open AccessArticle

Plant Growth Regulators Enhance Floral Induction of ‘Ziniangxi’ Litchi Under Warm–Humid Winters

by Mingchao Yang, Ding Chen, Yukun He, Fuchu Hu, Tingting Yan, Zhe Chen and Xianghe Wang

Horticulturae 2025, 11(12), 1522; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11121522 - 16 Dec 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 881

Abstract

Floral induction in late-maturing litchi is vulnerable to warm, humid winters with insufficient chilling. The late cultivar ‘Ziniangxi’ was evaluated during January–February 2024 in an experimental orchard in Hainan, China, when chilling accumulation was very low, with only seven days having a mean air temperature ≤ 15 °C. Under this marginal-chill context, the effects of plant growth regulator (PGR) applications on bud fate were assessed using six single-agent and thirteen composite PGR–nutrient treatments plus a water control, applied as four foliar sprays during floral induction. In the untreated control, the final flowering proportion of tagged shoots was 0.33 in the single-agent trial and 0.05 in the composite trial. In contrast, ABA (3.33 mg L⁻¹) increased flowering to 0.53, and ethephon- or brassinolide-based applications to 0.40–0.47. The most effective composite formulations raised flowering further to 0.50–0.63. These composite applications also increased leaf starch from about 4 mg g⁻¹ FW in the control to approximately 8–9 mg g⁻¹ FW (

p < 0.05

), whereas sucrose concentrations showed only small differences among treatments. Across trials, shoots that became floral consistently exhibited higher leaf starch than vegetative shoots. Gene-expression analyses indicated that floral buds had higher transcript abundance of LcFUL and lower transcript levels of LcFLC and other floral repressors than vegetative buds, consistent with their assignment to floral versus vegetative categories. Overall, the results suggest that appropriately timed ethephon–ABA-based PGR programs, supplemented with BR or 6-BA and nutrients, can partially improve floral induction in ‘Ziniangxi’ under warm, low-chill winters and provide a basis for designing PGR strategies for late litchi cultivars facing insufficient winter chilling. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancement in Genetics, Biotechnology and Breeding of Tropical and Subtropical Fruit Crops)

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17 pages, 2445 KB

Open AccessArticle

In Situ Diversity of Native Cherimoya in Southern Ecuador: Phenotypic and Ecological Insights

by Santiago C. Vásquez, Santiago Erazo-Hurtado, Mirian Capa-Morocho, Fernando Granja, Marlene Molina-Müller, Luis O. Viteri, Melissa A. Romero and Diego Chamba-Zaragocin

Horticulturae 2025, 11(12), 1505; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11121505 - 12 Dec 2025

Viewed by 1403

Abstract

Cherimoya is a fruit tree native to the Andean regions of South America, also in Central America, prized for its flavor, nutritional properties, and medicinal potential. Despite its economic relevance, in situ assessments of phenotypic diversity are limited, particularly in southern Ecuador, a key center of domestication. This study evaluated the morphological and ecogeographic diversity of 270 native trees across eight cantons in Loja province, Ecuador, using 34 qualitative and quantitative descriptors of leaves, flowers, fruits, and seeds. High phenotypic variability was observed, with coefficients of variation exceeding 40% for key traits, including mature fruit weight (48.15%), pulp weight (55.33%) and pulp-to-seed ratio (64.23%). Principal component analysis revealed three major axes of variation associated with productivity, floral morphology, and organoleptic quality. Cluster analysis identified four groups, with one distinguished by a favorable pulp-to-seed ratio and sugar–acid content. Species distribution modeling, which included bioclimatic and soil variables, showed that Gonzanamá, Quilanga and Espíndola possess the highest ecological suitability for cherimoya. These findings highlight priority areas for in situ conservation and phenotype selection, providing a foundation for sustainable use, genetic improvement, and the preservation of locally adapted germplasm to support climate-resilient agricultural systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancement in Genetics, Biotechnology and Breeding of Tropical and Subtropical Fruit Crops)

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16 pages, 2944 KB

Open AccessArticle

LcMYB2, a R2R3-MYB Transcription Factor, Regulates Anthocyanin and Proanthocyanidin Biosynthesis in Litchi chinensis Through Interaction with LcbHLH3

by Biao Lai, Li Jiang, Qi Zhu, Chongying Xie, Xiangyu Gong, Guolu He, Shuyi Zhang, Gangjun Luo, Huicong Wang, Lina Du and Guibing Hu

Horticulturae 2025, 11(11), 1309; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11111309 - 1 Nov 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 909

Abstract

Litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) is a popular subtropical fruit with a red pericarp that is primarily determined by the accumulation of anthocyanins. The peel color and fruit quality are also influenced by proanthocyanins (PAs), which play roles in fruit development and postharvest quality. In this study, we identified LcMYB2 as a key regulator of both anthocyanin and PA biosynthesis in litchi. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that LcMYB2 belongs to the VvMYB5 subclade. Expression analysis showed that LcMYB2 is highly expressed in the early stages of fruit development. Its expression pattern was consistent with that of LcLAR and LcANR, two key genes in the PA biosynthetic pathway. Subcellular localization and protein–protein interaction assays confirmed that LcMYB2 localizes to the nucleus and interacts with LcbHLH3. Dual-luciferase reporter assays demonstrated that the LcMYB2-LcbHLH3 complex activates the promoters of LcLAR and LcANR, supporting its role in regulating PA biosynthesis. Furthermore, overexpression of LcMYB2 in tobacco resulted in the synthesis of anthocyanins and PAs in the flower, indicating that LcMYB2 can regulate anthocyanin and PA biosynthesis. Additionally, transgenic tobacco plants with LcMYB2 overexpression exhibited delayed anther dehiscence, suggesting a broader role in plant development. These findings highlight the multifunctional nature of LcMYB2 in regulating both anthocyanin and PA biosynthesis, as well as its involvement in reproductive development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancement in Genetics, Biotechnology and Breeding of Tropical and Subtropical Fruit Crops)

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11 pages, 17511 KB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of Phenylacetic Acid and Its Derivatives on Callus Proliferation and Somatic Embryogenesis in Litchi chinensis

by Guo Wang, Yaoting Liu, Huanling Li, Lei Zhang, Zhiying Li and Jiabao Wang

Horticulturae 2025, 11(10), 1200; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11101200 - 3 Oct 2025

Viewed by 879

Abstract

The efficiency of in vitro regeneration in litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) is highly influenced by the type and concentration of plant growth regulators (PGRs), particularly auxins. This study evaluated the effects of phenylacetic acid (PAA) and its derivatives—4-chlorophenylacetic acid (CPA) and 4-iodophenylacetic acid (IPA)—on callus proliferation, somatic embryogenesis, and plantlet regeneration in ‘Feizixiao’ litchi, as well as to establish an efficient regeneration protocol. The inclusion of CPA or IPA in callus proliferation medium significantly enhanced the proliferation rate, with 20 mg·L⁻¹ CPA being the most effective. The highest number of somatic embryos per gram of fresh embryonic callus weight (gFW⁻¹) (1131 embryos·gFW⁻¹) was observed with 40 mg·L⁻¹ PAA in proliferation medium. The addition of 10 mg·L⁻¹ IPA to the proliferation medium yielded the highest plantlet regeneration rate (50 plantlets·gFW⁻¹). Supplementing the somatic embryo induction medium with 5 mg·L⁻¹ PAA resulted in 460 somatic embryos·gFW⁻¹ and 86 regenerated plantlets·gFW⁻¹. These findings indicate that PAA and its derivatives are effective PGRs for the in vitro regeneration of litchi, providing a valuable protocol for the propagation of elite cultivars. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancement in Genetics, Biotechnology and Breeding of Tropical and Subtropical Fruit Crops)

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13 pages, 1803 KB

Open AccessArticle

Characterization of Polyploid Embryoid Lines Induced via Unfertilized Ovule Culture of Loquat (Eriobotrya japonica Lindl.)

by Shuming Wang, Tingting Ruan, Yin Zhang, Peng Wang, Jiangbo Dang, Yan Xia, Danlong Jing, Guolu Liang, Qigao Guo and Qiao He

Horticulturae 2025, 11(7), 727; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11070727 - 23 Jun 2025

Viewed by 1183

Abstract

Polyploidy plays a significant role in loquat breeding, particularly in triploid breeding for seedless fruit production. Currently, loquat polyploid breeding primarily relies on natural seedling selection and sexual hybridization approaches. In this study, unfertilized ovules from four loquat varieties were in vitro cultured. Gynogenesis and embryoid regeneration were achieved in ‘Xingning 1’ and ‘Huabai 1’, with ‘Xingning 1’ demonstrating the highest gynogenesis efficiency (21.63%). Flow cytometry and chromosome counting revealed that the obtained embryoid lines included haploid, diploid, tetraploid, hexaploid, and chimeric ploidy types. Further characterization of ‘Xingning 1’-derived embryoid lines through SSR markers and whole-genome resequencing confirmed that the haploid, diploid, tetraploid, and hexaploidy embryoid originated from haploid–somatic chimeras, diploid, doubled diploid and tripled diploid, respectively. Metabolic analysis showed a positive correlation between ploidy level and the content of both soluble sugars and organic acids. This study explored a novel platform for polyploid induction in loquat and may provide methodological insights for improvement of other perennial fruit trees. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancement in Genetics, Biotechnology and Breeding of Tropical and Subtropical Fruit Crops)

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14 pages, 4161 KB

Open AccessArticle

Genotypic Performance of Coffea canephora at Transitional Altitudes for Climate-Resilient Coffee Cultivation

by Renan Baptista Jordaim, Tafarel Victor Colodetti, Wagner Nunes Rodrigues, Rodrigo Amaro de Salles, José Francisco Teixeira do Amaral, Laiane Silva Maciel, Fábio Luiz Partelli, José Cochicho Ramalho and Marcelo Antonio Tomaz

Horticulturae 2025, 11(6), 595; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11060595 - 27 May 2025

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2306

Abstract

The Coffea canephora market has grown significantly, driven by its economic relevance and improvements in beverage quality. Developing varieties adapted to local edaphoclimatic conditions is essential for supporting smallholder farmers, increasing productivity, and ensuring quality in the face of environmental challenges. This study evaluated 27 genotypes under two irrigation regimes using a split-plot design in a completely randomized block arrangement, with four replicates and three plants per plot. Growth and yield parameters were assessed. Genotypes 102, 103, 105, 106, 202, 209, 301, 303, and 305 showed significantly higher yields under full irrigation—up to 60% greater than under minimal irrigation—demonstrating strong responsiveness to water availability. In contrast, genotypes 203 and 206 performed better under minimal irrigation, with 29% higher yields, suggesting lower water requirements or greater drought tolerance. These findings highlight the potential for selecting genotypes suited to transitional altitudes that can benefit from targeted irrigation strategies. The combined use of irrigation and altitude-specific cultivation represents a viable and necessary approach to maximizing genetic potential, optimizing water use, and enhancing the sustainability of C. canephora cultivation in regions facing climate variability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancement in Genetics, Biotechnology and Breeding of Tropical and Subtropical Fruit Crops)

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15 pages, 4567 KB

Open AccessArticle

Characterization of SPL Family Genes in Banana Reveals the Critical Role of MaSPL1 in Regulating Fruit Ripening

by Bo Wang, Tongxin Dou, Ou Sheng, Weidi He, Guiming Deng, Fangcheng Bi, Chunyu Li, Tao Dong, Qiaosong Yang, Chunhua Hu, Huijun Gao, Siwen Liu, Cancan Liu, Jihong Liu, Ganjun Yi and Yaoyao Li

Horticulturae 2025, 11(6), 576; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11060576 - 23 May 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1490

Abstract

SPLs (SQUAMOSA promoter binding protein-like) are pivotal in regulating plant development and stress responses. Although SPL genes have been characterized in a series of plant species, no systematic analysis has been performed on bananas, one of the most consumed tropical fruits with immense economic importance worldwide. Here, 55 putative MaSPL genes were identified in Musa acuminata ssp. malaccensis var. Pahang and classified into seven groups based on phylogenetic analysis. The RNA-seq analysis revealed that the expression of MaSPLs presented distinct spatiotemporal patterns in different tissues at different developmental stages, indicating a potential role in banana growth and development. Furthermore, MaSPL1 was found to be predominantly expressed in banana fruits during the fruit development and the early postharvest stages. Notably, the transient overexpression of MaSPL1 accelerated the fruit ripening in bananas. In conclusion, this study provides comprehensive information for further investigation of the specific roles of SPL genes in banana developmental processes, particularly during fruit development and post-harvest stages, and may implement molecular strategies to regulate maturation and enhance fruit quality in bananas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancement in Genetics, Biotechnology and Breeding of Tropical and Subtropical Fruit Crops)

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Review

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14 pages, 373 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Advancing Citrus Breeding: Next- Genereation Tools for Resistance, Flavor and Health

by David Ezra and Nir Carmi

Horticulturae 2025, 11(9), 1011; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11091011 - 26 Aug 2025

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3110

Abstract

New plant breeding techniques are revolutionizing citrus improvement by accelerating trait enhancement and genetic gains. In recent years, technological advances have enabled more precise and accelerated breeding. This review discusses the state-of-the-art breeding technologies for citrus, including marker-assisted selection, genomic selection, genome editing (particularly CRISPR/Cas), somatic hybridization, mutation breeding, and speed breeding. Emphasis is placed on their practical application, current limitations, and potential integration into citrus-improvement programs to address biotic and abiotic stresses, improve fruit quality, and promote sustainable production. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancement in Genetics, Biotechnology and Breeding of Tropical and Subtropical Fruit Crops)

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