GENETIC DIVERSITY AND ADAPTABILITY IN PRUNUS SPECIES – PERSPECTIVES FOR CONSERVATION AND BREEDING

Rezumat

The genus Prunus comprises a wide range of species, characterized by genetic variability in all its cultivated forms. This diversity is reflected in the species’ adaptability to varied soil and climatic conditions, tolerance to biotic and abiotic stress, and their ability to ensure production stability in the context of climate change. Global studies highlight species such as Prunus cerasifera for their remarkable ecological plasticity, providing valuable genetic resources for breeding programs. At the same time, modern agriculture pressures, such as variety standardization and the loss of local cultivars, lead to reduced biodiversity, underlining the need for germplasm conservation. Gene banks and genetically assisted selection strategies represent viable solutions for preserving and sustainably using genetic resources. Moreover, phenological, physiological, and genetic analyses of these species significantly contribute to understanding adaptation mechanisms, offering solid foundations for the development of sustainable and resilient agriculture.