Genetic Diversity

Wild Rubus species bear important traits that can be used in commercial production to increase yield, quality, and disease resistance. Rubus bogotensis Kunth has great genetic potential for fruit trait improvement. It is likely to contribute unique genes to the enhancement of other Rubus species worldwide. However, relevant efforts to improve fruit features and yield characteristics are in their infancy, as R. bogotensis has not received much attention from commercial growers. R. bogotensis genetic diversity is high (0.31) within populations. The genetic diversity of wild populations could influence cultivars via pollen gene transfer, and this could be used by improvement programs.