The Role of Indigenous Fruit Biodiversity in Global Food Security

Traditional and Indigenous Fruit Species play an integral role in preserving the planet's agricultural biodiversity and are vital to global food security, livelihoods, and culturally significant diets. Despite their crucial importance, these species often remain underutilized or overlooked in modern agriculture, leading to a gap in understanding their unique genetic diversity, adaptability to challenging environments, and potential nutritional and phytochemical benefits. Recent studies have started unveiling the adaptive traits and contributions of these species to ecosystems, but a comprehensive understanding remains elusive, and further investigation is necessary to harness their full potential.This Research Topic aims to advance the comprehension of biodiversity, physiology, ecology, and conservation of traditional and indigenous fruit species on a global scale. Specifically, it seeks to uncover innovative methodologies for sustainable usage, breeding, restoration, and management, critical in safeguarding these valuable genetic resources. It will contextualize these efforts within the realities of climate change and increasing anthropogenic pressures, posing questions related to their potential for integration into conventional agriculture and the development of new food systems, alongside pursuing hypotheses of resilience and adaptability.To gather further insights into the holistic management and promotion of traditional fruit species, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:- Characterization of biodiversity, population genetics, and evolutionary adaptations of traditional and indigenous fruit species globally- Physiological and ecological studies elucidating responses to abiotic and biotic stresses, phenology, and reproductive biology- Molecular and omics-based approaches for genotype-phenotype relationships, trait discovery, and breeding applications- Conservation strategies integrating in situ preservation, seed banking, community-based management, and restoration ecology- Innovative cultivation, propagation, postharvest handling, and value addition practices promoting food security and sustainable livelihoods- Socioeconomic, cultural, and policy dimensions of protecting indigenous fruit diversity and traditional knowledge systems- Climate resilience and adaptation of traditional fruit species across diverse ecosystems and geographic regions- Integration of traditional ecological knowledge with scientific research for holistic resource managementBy encompassing a multidisciplinary and global perspective, this research aim is to stimulate investigations that inform conservation policies, support sustainable agriculture, and foster innovation around traditional and indigenous fruit species, enriching both agro-biodiversity and human well-being. Finally, we encourage submissions of original research articles, reviews, and perspectives that contribute to this vibrant field. Topic editors: Ana Veruska Cruz Silva, Christina Skodra, Ana Ledo Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/77313/the-role-of-indigenous-fruit-biodiversity-in-global-food-security