Genetic diversity and traditional uses of aboriginal grape (Vitis vinifera L.) varieties from the main viticultural regions of Armenia

Abstract

Being one of the oldest centers of grapevine (Vitis vinifera L.) cultivation, Armenia is rich in local old grape varieties. Today, only a small portion of these varieties is widely used and many varieties that are well-adapted to their environment face extinction. Hence, a detailed investigation of their genetic diversity, uses, and potential for preservation is very important. Here, we present data generated through field studies, literature reviews, interviews with farmers, and genetic analyses for some important, neglected grape varieties distributed over the main viticulture regions of Armenia. During field surveys, 175 samples representing different cultivars and their clones were collected and analyzed. 20 SSR markers were used for characterization. The cluster analyses revealed 71 genotypes clearly demonstrating Armenia’s rich diversity of local aboriginal grape varieties. The study also highlights a number of cases of synonymy, homonymy and misnaming. New genotypes were also identified. Field surveys, genetic characterization and ampelographic description of endangered varieties, wild forms, as well as observation of grapes growing in old, abandoned vineyards combined with the establishment of field collections are becoming essential tools in documenting grapevine germplasm and developing plans to preserve it and minimize an irreversible loss of genetic diversity.