In the heart of China, a treasure trove of peach diversity is being meticulously preserved and studied, with implications that could reshape the global agriculture sector. The National Peach Germplasm Repository in Zhengzhou, under the stewardship of the Zhengzhou Fruit Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, has become a beacon of hope for peach breeders and researchers worldwide. Their latest findings, published in ‘Guoshu xuebao’, offer a glimpse into the future of peach cultivation and genetic innovation.
For over six decades, the Repository has been on a mission to collect, conserve, and utilize peach germplasm resources. Today, it boasts the world’s largest and most comprehensive collection of peach genetic material, with a staggering 3194 accessions. This vast repository is not just a storehouse of seeds and plants; it’s a living, breathing testament to the rich history and immense potential of the peach.
The Repository’s work is a testament to the power of long-term investment in agricultural research. “Through persistent efforts in germplasm exploration, conservation, characterization, and utilization, the Repository has established an integrated innovation system that underpins fundamental research and breeding advancements in China while making substantial contributions to global peach science,” said lead author WANG Lirong of the Zhengzhou Fruit Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences/Horticultural Germplasm Resources Repository, Zhengzhou 450009, Henan, China.
The Repository’s impact on the agriculture sector is already being felt. Over the past three decades, a substantial proportion of major peach cultivars released in China can be directly traced back to parental materials conserved in the Repository. Iconic cultivars like Zhongpan 11, Zhongyou 4, and Zhongyoupan 9 have not only reshaped the national industry structure but also fostered the development of regional brands. The successful development of China’s first rootstock, Zhong Tao Kang Zhen 1, resistant to replant disease, is a significant breakthrough that could revolutionize peach farming.
But the Repository’s work is far from done. Looking ahead, the repository is well positioned to enhance its global impact by strengthening the acquisition of international germplasm, advancing cryopreservation and tissue-culture backup systems, and applying AI-enabled multi-omics integration to accelerate gene identification. These advancements could lead to the development of new cultivars that are more resilient to climate change, have improved fruit quality, and are better suited to diverse production regions.
The Repository’s work also highlights the importance of preserving cultural heritage. The peach holds profound cultural significance in China, associated with longevity, harmony, and prosperity. By integrating germplasm conservation with cultural heritage preservation, the Repository is not just safeguarding genetic diversity but also promoting rural revitalization and ecological tourism.
In conclusion, the National Peach Germplasm Repository (Zhengzhou) is a shining example of how strategic investment in agricultural research can yield tangible benefits for the agriculture sector. Its accomplishments provide a strategic foundation for safeguarding China’s seed sovereignty, advancing global peach research, and promoting the high-quality and sustainable development of the peach industry amidst climate variability and future agricultural challenges. As we look to the future, the Repository’s work serves as a reminder of the power of science to drive innovation and shape a more sustainable and resilient agriculture sector.