The BiodiverSO project as a model for preserving the biodiversity of vegetable crops in Puglia (Southern Italy)

The Puglia region is exceptionally rich in agro-biodiversity, showcasing how local vegetable varieties can continue to interact with modern horticulture. Unfortunately, the genetic diversity of vegetable crops in this region has declined due to factors such as rural abandonment, an aging farming population, and the loss of generational knowledge transfer.

This article summarizes the objectives, methodologies, and outcomes of the “Biodiversity of Puglia’s Vegetable Crops (BiodiverSO)” projects. These integrated initiatives, funded by the Puglia Regional Administration under the Rural Development Program, aim to recover, characterize, conserve, and enhance local vegetable varieties.

During the first project edition (2013–2018), activities were organized into eight work packages. For illustrative—yet incomplete—purposes, significant achievements include the recognition and promotion of the “Carota di Polignano” (Daucus carota L.), a local carrot variety producing yellow, purple, and orange roots within the same field. Additionally, eight local varieties of globe artichoke were sanitized of viruses such as artichoke Italian latent virus (AILV), artichoke latent virus (ArLV), and tomato infectious chlorosis virus (TICV) using meristem-tip culture and in vitro thermotherapy.

The second project edition (2023–2025) expanded activities to ten work packages, along with two additional actions focused on dissemination and information exchange. Notable progress was made with the “Scopatizzo” (Cucumis melo L.), an unripe melon used similarly to cucumbers. In hydroponic cultivation, this variety yielded 5.3 kg/plant (26.2 fruits/plant) within 71 days of transplanting. Furthermore, bitter fruits were observed in this variety, a phenomenon previously reported in some local cucumber varieties.

Another important result, by way of example but not of limitation, involved the “Barattiere”, a landrace of unripe melon (C. melo L.). This variety demonstrated resistance to Tomato leaf curl New Delhi virus (ToLCNDV), showing no detectable disease symptoms and recording very low levels of viral DNA accumulation. Consequently, the “Barattiere” has been proposed as a rootstock for ToLCNDV-susceptible cucurbit genotypes.

For both project editions, a computerized database—the BiodiverSO Management System (BMS)—was developed to ensure accurate and efficient management and processing of project data.

The results underscore that while some local varieties were replaced by modern ones before reaching their full potential, their genetic value remains critical for future crop improvement programs.

In conclusion, the BiodiverSO project serves as a model initiative for the protection and recovery of vegetable varieties at risk of genetic erosion, facilitating the identification and valorization of Puglia’s diverse plant germplasm.