Genetic and Genomic Resources of Bunium persicum (Boiss.) Fedtsch

Bunium persicum (Boiss.) Fedtsch, also known as black cumin, is an economically important medicinal spice plant growing in cold-temperate regions at higher altitudes in Central Asia and Northern India. It is mostly used as a spice and condiment in a variety of cuisine dishes. Numerous phytochemistry and pharmacological investigations on bioactive substances and their respective uses in their essential oil have increased demand over the past two decades. However, due to the rising demand, it is crucial to prevent its extinction. Therefore, for sustainable consumption and cultivation, this plant requires substantial genetic improvement research using advanced molecular and genomics tools. Thus, this chapter highlighted the important morphological and biochemical traits, existing diversity, selection strategy based on heritability and correlation among important traits, and genetic resources for future breeding programs on its improvement. The availability of DNA-based molecular markers can effectively tackle the challenges like dormant vegetative phases and a low genetic gain due to environmental influence. The advanced genomic tools could be utilized to quickly assess diversity and improve genetic gain and genetic improvement of this plant. The knowledge of genetic and genomic resources of B. persicum presented here can be utilized in managing and improving the germplasm under future breeding programs.