Peach

This chapter gives an overview of peach taxonomy, origin, domestication, distribution, and spread of the different wild genetic resources of peach species available worldwide. Various germplasm conservation methods are also discussed in detail (ex situ conservation, gene banks, seed banks, field gene banks) as well as the importance of conserving the genetic resources and their application in different breeding programs for utilization in crop improvement. Research in peach breeding focuses on both the transmission of quantitative characteristics and the inheritance of qualitative traits. The primary goals of peach breeding are to increase the quality of the tree and fruit, to integrate distinctive traits from a small number of cultivars, and to develop resistance to various biotic and abiotic stresses. Various breeding methods used to enhance peaches have been explored. The chapter also emphasizes a number of molecular breeding techniques that have been thoroughly discussed, with a focus on gene mapping and the creation of markers connected to monogenic and polygenic traits.