Recovery and characterization of chestnut germplasm in the West Side of Aspromonte Area (South Calabria)

For a considerable period of time chestnuts were a fundamental source of food and economy for the people in the Aspromonte area. After decades in which chestnut cultivation has been neglected as a result of depopulation in mountainous zones, the production capacity in this area has reduced resulting in an erosion of the native germplasm. A survey has been carried out to improve the knowledge about the chestnut germplasm present in this area and to evaluate its qualities with the objective of preserving native genetic resources, safeguarding them from genetic erosion phenomenon and individuating local genotypes of market value which could be used to promote a re-launch of local chestnut cultivation. The research, which was carried out in 2008 on the western slopes of the Aspromonte, has led to the identification of 38 genotypes. The germplasm which was individuated has a considerable rate of variability in that it has different phenological and morphological characteristics. Overall, the 38 genotypes have a ripening period extending from the last 10 days of September until the end of October. With regard to the valuable characteristics of the nuts, the genetic material which was analysed was overall found to be of market value. Most of the genotypes have the characteristics of an episperm which can be easily removed, a seed coat which fails to penetrate the inner kernel or penetrates minimally, and a single embryo. Genotypes with these characteristics will be studied furthermore for creating new chestnut plantations in Calabria.