Inventory of Fruit Crop Wild Relatives of Albania

Abstract

Albania is an ancient home of early crop domestication, strategically placed in the Mediterranean Basin, with a variety of ecological niches due to the convergence of Mediterranean and continental climates, the isolation and protection from the predominantly mountainous terrain (heights up to 2700 m), and many valleys and rivers. It contains a rich biodiversity with more than 3,200 endemic plant species. Although the country is little known to outsiders, there are enormous opportunities to preserve a great many species of fruit crops wild relatives. This paper reports results of a study since 2003 to identify and describe fruit crop wild relatives of Albania. After a scrutinizing bibliographical review and tens of expeditions undertaken in a large part of the territory, we have identified and described over 94 species. They belong to 18 families and 30 genera. In the natural ecosystems of Albania, we have found spontaneous and wild forms of many fruit trees and shrubs, including apples (Malus)(Fragaria) and vacciniums. An attempt is made in this paper to estimate the share of species found in Albania with those at EU + Mediterranean level. This has required a large bibliographical survey to draft a provisional list of temperate and subtropical fruit crop wild relatives.The work is continuing with compiling a database, mapping and further description of such rich patrimony for a small country. Enhanced information and expansion of knowledge on fruit crops wild relatives will increase awareness, in situ conservation strategies and activities worldwide.

Cross-Border Territorial Development through Geographical Indications: Gargano (Italy) and Dibër (Albania)

“…The millenary presence of olives in Albania has been shown by the records of olive export to France dating to 300-150 BC [31] and by the archeological remains by 6th century AD [32]. The genetic patrimony of the country is considered very rich in this sector [33,34] and today 22 olive cultivars are used in the olive plantations of Albania [35].…”