Uncovering hidden genetic diversity of grapevines in Algerian oases (Biskra and El-Oued) through molecular and ampelographic characterization
摘要
Grapevine identification is essential for the conservation and valorization of local genetic resources, particularly in regions facing harsh agro-ecological conditions. In the present study, 37 accessions from the Algerian oases of Biskra and El-Oued were characterized using 12 simple sequence repeat (SSR) molecular markers, followed by an ampelographic description of the newly identified genotypes according to the International Organization of Vine and Wine (OIV) standard descriptors. Genetic analysis revealed 18 unique genotypes with 82 different alleles, indicating a high level of polymorphism and considerable genetic diversity (cumulative Pi of 7.56 × 10–14). Eight new genotypes adapted to extreme environmental conditions were identified and provisionally named Kadar, Ben-Azzouz, Oumache, Bouchagroun, Debila, Biskra, Deglet-Tolga and Mekhref. Ampelographic characterization was conducted using 33 OIV descriptors related to mature leaves. Multivariate analysis revealed two distinct groups of accessions, primarily differentiated by key discriminating traits related to leaf size and shape, such as the length of the main vein (OIV 601), the depth of lateral sinuses (OIV 605–606), the angles between primary veins (OIV 607), and specific aspects of the tooth geometry (OIV 616–618). The dendrograms based on molecular and ampelographic data were largely consistent, reflecting the complementarity between the two approaches; any observed differences were likely due to morphological adaptations to local climatic conditions. This study successfully recovered and characterized a substantial portion of neglected grapevine diversity preserved in the extreme environments of Algerian oases, deeply highlighting valuable genetic resources for conservation and potential future valorization.