Yunfei Cai ¹ , Bin Chen ² , Junfeng Hou ² , Fucheng Zhao ² , Guiyue Wang ² , Renxiang Cai ³

1 Seed Management Station of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhengjiang, China
2 Institute of Maize and Featured Upland Crops, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Dongyang, 322100, Zhengjiang, China
3 Institute of Life Science, Jiyang College of Zhejiang AandF University, Zhuji, 311800, Zhengjiang, China
Author    Correspondence author
Maize Genomics and Genetics, 2024, Vol. 15, No. 2   doi: 10.5376/mgg.2024.15.0008
Received: 02 Feb., 2024    Accepted: 15 Mar., 2024    Published: 28 Mar., 2024

This is an open access article published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

Cai Y.F., Chen B., Hou J.F., Zhao F.C., Wang G.Y., and Cai R.X., 2024, Genetic structure and diversity in Zea genus: implications for conservation and breeding, Maize Genomics and Genetics, 15(2): 70-79 (doi: 10.5376/mgg.2024.15.0008)

The Zea genus, encompassing vital crop species like maize, holds significant genetic diversity essential for agricultural sustainability and food security. This study aims to elucidate the genetic structure and diversity within Zea species, underscore the importance of conserving these genetic resources, and highlight their implications for breeding programs. The phylogenetic relationships within Zea, genetic variation, and methods for assessing genetic structure are explored to provide a comprehensive understanding of the genus's genetic framework. The study also examines molecular markers, geographic distribution, and factors influencing genetic diversity, emphasizing the need for robust conservation strategies. Threats to genetic diversity are identified, alongside conservation efforts including the role of gene banks, ex situ, and in situ conservation. The utilization of genetic diversity in breeding programs is discussed, focusing on stress resistance, adaptability, yield enhancement, and modern breeding techniques such as genomic selection. Case studies of successful breeding programs and conservation projects illustrate practical applications and challenges. Future directions highlight advances in genomic tools, integrating conservation with breeding efforts, and policy considerations. This study underscores the critical need for continued research and strategic conservation to harness the full potential of Zea genetic resources for future agricultural innovation.

Zea genus; Genetic diversity; Conservation; Breeding programs; Genomic tools