Contrasting germplasm composition and propagation practices in the two major cacao-growing areas in Panama

Résumé fourni par la source

Abstract Cacao farms in Panama are managed primarily by indigenous communities, with records dating back to 1500 BC However, the specific cacao germplasm in use and the associated management practices remain largely undocumented. Our main goals were (i) to characterize cacao germplasm in farms from the two main cultivation areas of Panama (Bocas del Toro and Herrera) and (ii) to explore the relation between cacao germplasm types and their management and environments. Root and leaf samples from five trees each per farm (16 in total) were analysed using a 96-single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) array. Environmental and soil data were also collected. In Bocas del Toro, cacao genotypes showed a continuous admixture of all major genetic groups, whereas genotypes in Herrera were primarily Amelonado and Criollo, including individuals with pure Criollo ancestry. Limited germplasm exchange between regions resulted in distinct genetic compositions. Whereas farmers predominantly used seeds to establish plantations, grafting was significantly more common in Bocas del Toro (55%) than in Herrera (16%). Regression analysis identified total nitrogen and pH as the most important soil variables associated with genetic differences. The high genetic diversity of cacao in Panama has potential value for national industry development.

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