No full-text available
To read the full-text of this research,
you can request a copy directly from the author.
On the Origin of Almond
Abstract
Almond, Amygdalus communis L., is an ancient crop of south west Asia. Selection of the sweet type marks the beginning of almond domestication. Wild almonds are bitter and eating even a relatively small number of nuts can be fatal. How man selected the sweet type remains a riddle. Also, the wild ancestor of almond has not been properly identified among the many wild almond species. Breeding experiment, which is the most critical test for identifying the wild progenitors of other crops, is ineffective in almond, because it is interfertile with many wild taxa. The so-called wild A. communis of central Asia cannot be regarded as a genuine wild form, but as a feral form, or remains of old afforestation. The wild taxa morphologically akin to almond, A. korshinskyi (H.-M.) Bomm. and A. webbii Spach, are also feral types occurring in the Middle East and southern Europe, respectively. The taxon A. fenzliana (Fritsch) Lipsky is the most likely wild ancestor of almond for three reasons: 1. It is a genuine wild type forming extensive thickets of large trees young seedlings and all the intergradations between them in nature; 2. Its morphology, and particularly the partially pitted grooved nut-shell are within the range of variation of almond, and 3. A. fenzliana is native of Armenia and western Azerbaijan in the Middle East where almond was apparently domesticated.
... The sweet phenotype is produced by the dominant form of this locus such that homozygous dominant individuals (SkSk) and heterozygotes (Sksk) present this characteristic (Heppner, 1923(Heppner, , 1926Sánchez-Pérez et al., 2019). Since the consumption of relatively small quantities of bitter almonds (as few as a couple dozen) can be lethal (Ladizinsky, 1999), almond domestication and cultivation is inextricably and exclusively linked to the non-toxic ('sweet') genotypes (Browicz & Zohary, 1996;Delplancke et al., 2013;Ladizinsky, 1999;Sánchez-Pérez et al., 2019). However, the frequency of the dominant allele in wild populations must be extremely low, to the point that it has never been found in a wild individual (a puzzling problem that was termed the 'riddle of almond domestication' by Ladizinsky, 1999) perhaps because toxic seeds are strongly favoured by predator-mediated natural selection. ...
... The sweet phenotype is produced by the dominant form of this locus such that homozygous dominant individuals (SkSk) and heterozygotes (Sksk) present this characteristic (Heppner, 1923(Heppner, , 1926Sánchez-Pérez et al., 2019). Since the consumption of relatively small quantities of bitter almonds (as few as a couple dozen) can be lethal (Ladizinsky, 1999), almond domestication and cultivation is inextricably and exclusively linked to the non-toxic ('sweet') genotypes (Browicz & Zohary, 1996;Delplancke et al., 2013;Ladizinsky, 1999;Sánchez-Pérez et al., 2019). However, the frequency of the dominant allele in wild populations must be extremely low, to the point that it has never been found in a wild individual (a puzzling problem that was termed the 'riddle of almond domestication' by Ladizinsky, 1999) perhaps because toxic seeds are strongly favoured by predator-mediated natural selection. ...
... Since the consumption of relatively small quantities of bitter almonds (as few as a couple dozen) can be lethal (Ladizinsky, 1999), almond domestication and cultivation is inextricably and exclusively linked to the non-toxic ('sweet') genotypes (Browicz & Zohary, 1996;Delplancke et al., 2013;Ladizinsky, 1999;Sánchez-Pérez et al., 2019). However, the frequency of the dominant allele in wild populations must be extremely low, to the point that it has never been found in a wild individual (a puzzling problem that was termed the 'riddle of almond domestication' by Ladizinsky, 1999) perhaps because toxic seeds are strongly favoured by predator-mediated natural selection. ...
Cultivated plant species often naturalize and enter wild communities in a process known as feralization. To successfully feralize, crops must overcome ecological barriers and may undergo selection on certain traits, diverging phenotypically and genetically from their crop ancestors. In spite of the agronomic and ecological relevance of crop feralization, the eco‐evolutionary dynamics driving it remain understudied.
In this paper, we evaluated phenotypic and genotypic differentiation in fruit and seed traits during the naturalization of the almond tree (Prunus dulcis (Mill.) D.A. Webb) in SE Iberia and evaluated the potential role of natural selection in this process. To do so, we investigated the patterns of genetic divergence between cultivated and feral populations using functional (the cyanogenesis Sk gene) and neutral (17 SSR loci) markers and analysed morphological and biochemical traits in kernels of 342 individuals from 15 cultivated and 24 feral populations.
We detected very little genetic differentiation in neutral markers between cultivated and feral populations. The majority of the observed genetic variation was due to differences within each type. Conversely, the recessive allele sk responsible for seed toxicity was significantly more frequent in feral populations. Phenotypic differentiation between cultivated and naturalized almond populations was also significant. Feral almond kernels were smaller and lighter, had denser and more resistant shells (endocarps) and more toxic seeds. Selection analyses indicated that these genetic and phenotypic patterns might be driven by directional selection on fruit and seed traits, potentially linked to defence against predation.
Synthesis. Our findings indicate that almond naturalization is consistent with strong directional selection on fruits and seeds, leading to smaller and more toxic seeds encased in harder endocarps. Accordingly, we propose that feralization of this crop is, at least to some degree, driven by adaptive evolution of dispersal and recruitment traits.
... D.A. Webb; syn. P. amygdalus (L.) Batsch), native to Western and Central Asia (Ladizinsky 1999, Zeinalabedini et al. 2010) is commercially grown worldwide. Many authors have suggested that cultivated almond have arose from interspecific hybridizations of wild almond species. ...
... Selection of sweet almond is the beginning of almond domestication. However, it is not clear that which wild almond species is the wild ancestor of sweet almond (Ladizinsky 1999). We observed that P. amygdalinum did not lose the ability to infect wild host A. scoparia. ...
... The Rosaceae family includes the almond tree. It is the oldest nut crop in southwest Asia and, therefrom, has spread to other areas and continents [5]. Hippocrates was the first to mention using almonds to treat colds and other phlegmatic disorders [6]. ...
... Greek, Roman, and Arab invasions [5]. Almonds may be consumed as dried fruit or employed in baking and liquors. ...
Background: Natural cosmetics are becoming increasingly popular among the general public. Natural beauty products
promote a holistic approach to environmental and health preservation. As a result, consumers seeking that type of
cosmetics search for products that may ensure a genuinely natural effect. Over the last two decades, the number
of studies demonstrating the benefits of natural ingredients in cosmetics for dermatologic and hair care, as well as
disease treatment, has increased. For centuries, almonds have been employed in cosmetics. They increase the radiance
and fairness of the skin. Almonds are widely available in the Portuguese region of Trás-os-Montes, and suggestions
for using them in cosmetics should be made. This study presents a method of using almond shells as a cosmetic
product easily reproducible at home. Materials and Methods: All equipment employed was cleaned and disinfected
beforehand. Almond shells were ground to a powder and incorporated into a gel exfoliant formulation. Results: With
a gentle rub, apply the almond shell exfoliation gel to the entire body. A sponge, lukewarm water, or damp cotton
may be used to remove the product. The product may last for up to one month if properly stored and manufactured.
Conclusion: As the demand for knowledge, acquisition, and the use of natural and organic cosmetics grows, the topic
becomes increasingly relevant, as is the desire to stay young and seek accurate information in order to formulate organic
and natural cosmetics.
... Prunus L. (Rosaceae, Prunoideae) is a large and complex genus with almost 250 species, including many economically important fruit trees such as plums, cherries, peaches, nectarines, apricots and almonds (Faust & Timon, 1995;Faust & Surányi, 1997, 1999Faust & al., 1998;Zohary & Hopf, 2000;Kalkman, 2004;Janick, 2011). The common almond, P. dulcis (Mill.) ...
... Sicily), Spain, (Webb, 1968;Felipe & Socias i Company, 1977;Godini & al., 2009;Silletti, 2009;Yazbek, 2010;POWO, 2023), and North Africa (Guelma, Tlemcen and Ain Defla [Djebel Zaccar Rherbi] in Algeria; Rif area and Fez-Taza in Morocco) (Battandier, 1889;Jahandiez & Maire, 1932;African Plant Database, 2022). Ladizinsky (1999) concluded that P. webbii is a derived form of the cultivated almond and not a genuine wild type, but field observations at several sites by Felipe (1984) suggest that it should be treated as a separate species. A wide crosscompatibility among different species of almond can also cause problems with accurate identification, leading to taxonomic confusion (Felipe & Socias i Company, 1977;Godini, 2000;Socias i Company, 2002Banović & al., 2007Banović & al., , 2009). ...
The typifications of the scientific names of the common almond Amygdalus dulcis (≡ Prunus dulcis ; Rosaceae, Prunoideae) and the Mediterranean almond tree A. webbii (≡ P. webbii ), a wild relative of the common almond, are discussed. Amygdalus dulcis is neotypified on a specimen at VAL recently collected from a living tree of the variety of almond most similar to the original description. Amygdalus webbii is lectotypified on a specimen preserved at P collected by Pierre Martin Rémi Aucher‐Éloy.
... Almonds (Prunus dulcis) are an ancient crop from Asia [1] and are one of the most important tree nut crops in commercial production [2]. It is now grown in California (U.S.), the Mediterranean, Central Asia, and Australia [3]. ...
... calculated according to formula(1). Reference RI is from this website (https://webbook.nist.gov/). ...
Almonds (Prunus dulcis) are an ancient and commercially valuable crop from Asia. In this experiment, solid-phase microextraction (SPME), solvent-assisted flavor evaporation (SAFE), and simultaneous distillation extraction (SDE) were used to pretreat the almonds from China. The almond extract was then analyzed by aroma extract dilution analysis (AEDA) with gas chromatography-olfactory-mass spectrometer (GC-O-MS). SPME and SAFE were identified as the better extraction methods, and 52 aroma-active compounds of almonds, such as 1-nonanal, eugenol, and linalool, were identified based on odor activity values (OAVs). Aroma recombination and omission experiments showed that “sweet,” “fruity,” and “fatty” are the main aroma attributes of Chinese almonds, with a strong relationship with hexanal, heptaldehyde, 1-nonanal, etc. This experiment provides new insights into the sensory contribution of Chinese almond volatiles and helps Chinese almond producers characterize and market the aroma profile of Chinese almond varieties.
... The Almond tree is a species of the Rosaceae family. It is the oldest nut crop in southwest Asia, and from that region, it has diffused to other areas and continents [5]. Hippocrates was the rst to discuss the use of almonds for colds and other phlegmatic disorders [6]. ...
... Hippocrates was the rst to discuss the use of almonds for colds and other phlegmatic disorders [6]. Due to the successive Greek, Roman, and Arab invasions, almond cultivation spread in a narrow horizontal band westward through the Mediterranean to Spain [5]. Almonds can be eaten as dried fruit and used for pastry and liquors. ...
Avoiding the potentially dangerous chemicals found in many of today's commercially made beauty products is a good reason for making our own cosmetic products. Almonds have been used for centuries in cosmetics. They enhance the glow and fairness of the skin. Almonds are easily obtained in the Trás-os-Montes area (Portugal), and suggestions on how to use them in cosmetics should be made. This study presents a method for using almonds and almond shells as a cosmetic product that can be reproduced domestically.
... Peach and almond are sexually compatible species that originated from a common ancestor in central Asia about 5 Mya [13,14]. Peach was domesticated in China ∼5000 years ago [15], while almond domestication is still unclear, although it probably occurred somewhere between the steppes of central Asia and the eastern Mediterranean shores [16]. Peaches are cultivated for their fleshy mesocarp, as are other Prunus stone fruit species such as apricot, cherry, and plum, and almonds are cultivated for their seed: both are of major economic importance. ...
... Of the 206 heterozygous ILs, 65 had unique introgressed fragments and in 141 these fragments were in common with other lines (Supplementary Figure 2), whereas for the 77 homozygous ILs, 29 were unique and in the remaining 48 the introgressed fragments were in common with other lines (Supplementary Figure 3). The number of lines covering each linkage group in the heterozygous ILs were G1 (20), G2 (27), G3 (21), G4 (19), G5 (24), G6 (60), G7 (16) and G8 (19). For the 77 homozygous ILs, almond fragments were located on G1 (11), G2 (12), G3 (3), G4 (8), G5 (8), G6 (25), G7 (5) and G8 (5). ...
Peach [Prunus persica L. Batsch] is one of the major temperate fruit tree species, the commercial materials of which have a low level of genetic variability. Almond [P. dulcis (Mill) DA Webb], a close relative of peach cultivated for its kernels, has a much higher level of diversity. The species are inter-compatible and often produce fertile hybrids, almond being a possible source of new genes for peach that could provide biotic and abiotic stress tolerance traits. In this paper we describe the development of a collection of peach-almond introgression lines (ILs) having a single fragment of almond (cv. Texas) in the peach background (cv. Earlygold). Lines with few introgressions were selected with markers from successive generations from a “Texas” × “Earlygold” F1 hybrid, initially using a set of SSRs and later with the 18 k peach SNP chip, allowing for the final extraction of 67 lines, 39 with almond heterozygous introgressions covering 99% of the genome, and 28 with homozygous introgressions covering 83% of the genome. As a proof of concept, four major genes and four quantitative characters were examined in the selected ILs giving results generally consistent with previous information on the genetics of these characters. This collection is the first of its kind produced in a woody perennial species and promises to be a valuable tool for genetic analyses, including dissection of quantitative traits, positional cloning, epistasis and as prebreeding material to introgress almond genes of interest into the peach commercial gene pool.
... Overview: The Almond tree is a species of the Rosaceae family. It is the oldest nut crop of southwest Asia, and from that region it has diffused to other regions and continents [106]. Hippocrates was the first to discuss the use of almonds for cold and other phlegmatic disorders [107]. ...
... Hippocrates was the first to discuss the use of almonds for cold and other phlegmatic disorders [107]. Due to the successive Greek, Roman, and Arab invasions, almond cultivation spread in a narrow horizontal band westward through the Mediterranean to Spain [106]. Almonds can be eaten as dried fruit and are also used for pastry and liquors. ...
The natural cosmetics market has grown since consumers became aware of the concept of natural-based ingredients. A significant number of cosmetics have an ecological impact on the environment and carry noxious and chemically potent substances. Thus, the use of natural and organic cosmetics becomes increasingly important since it is clear that topical treatment with cosmeceuticals can help improve skin rejuvenation. A substantial investigation into the benefits that fruits and plants can bring to health is required. Studies have shown that antigenotoxic properties are linked to anti-aging properties. Several studies have shown potential antigenotoxicity in natural ingredients such as Almonds (Prunus dulcis), Elderberry (Sambucus nigra), Olives (Olea europaea), and Grapes (Vitis vinifera). This review presents an overview of research conducted on these natural ingredients, the most common in the Northeast of Portugal. This region of Portugal possesses the most organic farmers, and ingredients are easily obtained. The Northeast of Portugal also has climatic, topographic, and pedological differences that contribute to agricultural diversity.
... D. A. Webb is a fruit tree of the genus Amygdalus in the Rosaceae family. Almond is an important economic fruit tree that is widely planted worldwide and is one of the four largest dried fruits in the world 1 . Almond have been cultivated in China since the Tang Dynasty, with a history of more than 1,300 years. ...
We assembled a chromosome-level genome of Chinese native ‘Wanfeng’ almond, with a size of 288.53 Mb and a contig N50 of 30.48 Mb. Approximately 270 Mb (93.58%) of the sequences are anchored on 8 Superscaffolds, and 174.59 Mb (60.51%) of the sequences are repetitive sequences. BUSCO assessment revealed that the ‘Wanfeng’ almond genome assembly included 99.3% complete BUSCOs. A total of 24,230 protein-coding genes were annotated, and 24,033 were functional. The assembly of the ‘Wanfeng’ almond genome provides a valuable genetic resource for molecular breeding of native almonds in China.
... Wild almond species have garnered attention in breeding programs, primarily for their potential use as rootstocks or scion cultivars [48]. These bitter almonds, known for their toxic properties that can be lethal if consumed in even small quantities [49], also yield gum extracted from the bark and branches, as exemplified by P. scoparia. In traditional Iranian medicine, this gum, referred to as Persian gum, has been utilized to address a wide array of ailments ranging from cancer to toothache (Zargari). ...
In the past, the Silk Road was a vital trade route that spanned Eurasia, connecting East Asia to the Mediterranean Sea. The genus Prunus, belonging to the Rosaceae family and encompassing plums, peaches, apricots, cherries, and almonds, thrived as human travel along the Silk Road increased. The majority of fruits within this genus, whether wild or cultivated, are naturally sweet and easily preserved by drying for storage and transport. The interaction along the Silk Road between wild populations and diverse varieties of Prunus fruits led to the development of various hybrids. This article provides a summary of archaeological findings related to prominent Prunus fruits such as peaches, apricots, plums, cherries, and almonds, shedding light on their evolutionary history, genetic diversity, population structure, and historical dynamics crucial for species conservation. The origins of biodiversity may involve factors like migration of pre-adapted lineages, in situ variation, or the persistence of ancestral lineages. Furthermore, climate change is affecting spatial genetic patterns and potentially further threatening rare Prunus species. Evaluating the scope and composition of genetic diversity within germplasm collections is essential for enhancing plant breeding initiatives and preserving genetic resources in this changing context. From a molecular point of view, techniques such as genome-wide association studies (GWASs) and the identification of quantitative trait loci (QTLs) and genes responsible for phenotypic changes in cultivars and germplasm collections should be of great interest in these breeding programs, while genomic estimated breeding values (GEBVs) derived from genome-wide DNA polymorphism information can facilitate the selection of superior genotypes.
... The most commonly used biomasses, identified as high potential feedstocks, are discussed briefly in the following section in alphabetical order. Almond (Prunus amygdalus) is an Iranian native tree belonging to genus prunus and amygdalus subgenus, whose fruit being a drupe has an outer hull and a hard shell enclosing its seed (Ladizinsky, 1999). However, almond seed is edible, its hard shell is always discarded as wastes. ...
Briquetting of biomasses is an ideal technique for improvising both its volumetric and net energy density; besides, it serves as an effective means for reducing their pollution. In general, numerous biomass and organic by-products are discarded as wastes, citing their non-edibility, composition of chemical compounds present in their raw form, and zero usage value. Yet, these biomass wastes hold significant heating values, which promote them into promising solid biofuels, either in their existing or pre-treated form. Accordingly, this review article discusses the various biomasses used as raw feedstock for briquetting, besides summarising the works carried out in relevance to their respective briquettes. In addition, the proximate and lignocellulosic composition of these biomasses, and their pre-treatment techniques followed to prepare them for briquetting, have also been discussed. This study suggested that the heating value of biomasses ranged between 10 and 20 MJ/kg, while their briquettes reported between 15 and 25 MJ/kg, thereby citing their potential as viable replacements for existing fossil coals. Besides, factors affecting different thermal and physicochemical properties of these briquettes have also been studied and these properties play a crucial role in deciding the overall quality of the briquettes. Ultimately, this study proposes that any biomass with good calorific value and lignin content can be processed into briquettes with good strength and durability; however, the choice of biomass will also be accounted for by its availability, geographical distribution and handability.
... The cultivated sweet almond (Prunus dulcis Miller (D. A. Webb) syn. P. amygdalus Batsch) is originated from southwestern and central Asia and spread to countries with Mediterranean climatic zones and the USA for its commercial value [1,2]. During the last decade, almond nut production has increased significantly [3]. ...
Almonds are one of the world’s most consumed nuts. The high content of unsaturated fatty acids and the elevated presence of bioactive compounds make almond nuts a healthy product with great pharmacological potential. This review focuses on the clinical studies relative to the health benefits of sweet almond nuts consumption. Several studies have associated almond nuts consumption with a wide range of health outcomes. Body weight, food intake, blood pressure, blood lipid composition, glucose and insulin levels, oxidative status, liver enzymes, and some inflammation biomarkers have been reported to be favorably altered by almond nuts consumption. These results suggest beneficial impacts on cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, obesity, etc. Also, almond intake was associated with cognitive performance improvement, skin photodamage, and aging protection. The potential protective effects of almond nuts on cancer and reproductive disorders need evidence from clinical trials.
... Almonds are believed to have originated in Central Asia (Gradziel 2017), and indeed the majority (n 5 131) of the NPGS almond accessions are listed as coming from this part of the world. A number of wild almond species also exist, several of which are hypothesized to be progenitors of P. dulcis (Kester et al. 1990;Ladizinsky 1999;Zeinalabedini et al. 2010). Several of these species have been used in modern breeding programs to introgress desirable traits [reviewed in Socias i Company et al. (2017)]. ...
We evaluated the genetic diversity of a newly available collection of 94 almond [ Prunus dulcis (Mill.) D.A. Webb] accessions from the former Improving Perennial Plants for Food and Bioenergy (IPPFBE) Foundation. Most of the collection (87 accessions) were collected as seeds from trees growing in the central Asian nations of Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan, and included several examples of Prunus bucharica (Korsh.) Hand.-Mazz, and related wild species. Of the remaining accessions, six were sourced from a nursery in northern Utah in the United States, and one was a seedling of ‘Nonpareil’, a major commercial cultivar. DNA fingerprints were generated from 10 simple sequence repeat markers. To evaluate the comparative diversity of these new accessions, 66 accessions from the US Department of Agriculture, National Plant Germplasm System (NPGS) almond germplasm collection near Davis, CA, USA, were also included. These NPGS accessions were chosen to represent those collected in similar regions of Central Asia and the Caucasus. The fingerprints were analyzed via hierarchical clustering, principal components analysis (PCA), and discriminant analysis of principal components (DAPC). Hierarchical clustering suggested that half of the Utah-sourced accessions are closely related to each other and to the ‘Nonpareil’ seedling. Additional close relationships were detected (including at least one duplication or mislabeling), and two P. bucharica accessions from the IPPFBE collection were separated from the rest of the collection. A plot of the first two principal components clearly separated wild almond relatives ( P. bucharica and Prunus fenzliana Fritsch) from the remaining accessions. PCA after removal of the wild species separated the ‘Nonpareil’ seedling, the Utah-sourced accessions, and many of the IPPFBE accessions (mostly from Uzbekistan) from nearly all other individuals. The third principal component identified an additional population structure that separated groups of predominantly IPPFBE or NPGS accessions. DAPC showed a considerable admixture of accessions from Azerbaijan, and a little to no admixture of accessions from Georgia and Tajikistan. These results suggest that central Asian/Caucasian almond germplasm is generally distinct from ‘Nonpareil’ and its relatives, and that although there is overlap between the NPGS and IPPFBE collections from this region, the IPPFBE collection does enhance the diversity of available almond germplasm.
... dulcis) is the result of domestication and cultivation of the wild plant, generally characterized by bitter seeds (Prunus amygdalus Batsch var. amara), from the Middle East [1][2][3]. It was introduced into Europe between the 6th and 5th centuries B.C. by the Greeks and Phoenicians. ...
Maximizing water use efficiency, yield, and plant survival under drought is a relevant research issue for almond-tree-growing areas worldwide. The intraspecific diversity of this species may constitute a valuable resource to address the resilience and productivity challenges that climate change poses to crop sustainability. A comparative evaluation of physiological and productive performance of four almond varieties: 'Arrubia', 'Cossu', 'Texas', and 'Tuono', field-grown in Sardinia, Italy, was performed. A great variability in the plasticity to cope with soil water scarcity and a diverse capacity to adapt to drought and heat stresses during fruit development were highlighted. The two Sardinian varieties, Arrubia and Cossu, showed differences in water stress tolerance, photosynthetic and photochemical activity, and crop yield. 'Arrubia' and 'Texas' showed greater physiological acclimation to water stress while maintaining higher yields, as compared to the self-fertile 'Tuono'. The important role of crop load and specific anatomical traits affecting leaf hydraulic conductance and leaf gas exchanges efficiency (i.e., dominant shoot type, leaf size and roughness) was evidenced. The study highlights the importance of characterizing the relationships among almond cultivar traits that affect plant performance under drought in order to better assist planting choices and orchard irrigation management for given environmental contexts.
... A elevada variabilidade de resíduos resultantes deste tipo de atividades, justifica a continuidade dos trabalhos de investigação, destacando-se neste estudo os resíduos de casca de amêndoa e de caroço de azeitona, dada a importância que a produção de amêndoa e de azeite assume a nível económico. A amendoeira (Prunus dulcis) é uma espécie originária das regiões quentes e áridas do sudeste da Ásia [13] e encontra-se, atualmente, dispersa por quase todo o mundo, sendo que 36% da área ocupada pela amendoeira se localiza na Europa [14].A produção mundial de amêndoa com casca foi de 4,1 milhões de toneladas em 2020, destacando-se os Estados Unidos como maiores produtores, com cerca de 57% da produção [15]. ...
Resumo A problemática das alterações climáticas, da escassez de recursos e da elevada produção de resíduos com que a sociedade se depara exige a adoção de comportamentos mais sustentáveis, com especial ênfase nos setores económicos com maior contribuição para o panorama atual, como é o caso do setor da construção. Mostra-se, portanto, fundamental a adoção de soluções construtivas mais sustentáveis que contribuam para a redução do consumo de recursos e que potenciem a reciclagem e reutilização de resíduos. Atenção acrescida tem sido dada à valorização de resíduos e subprodutos provenientes das diversas atividades económicas e à sua utilização como matéria-prima na obtenção de novos materiais numa perspetiva de economia circular e de criação de valor. Diversos investigadores têm proposto a utilização de bio resíduos em materiais de construção, como agregados ou ligantes, solucionando, por um lado, os possíveis problemas inerentes à eliminação de bio resíduos, dada a valorização que lhes é atribuída e, por outro lado, a diminuição na utilização de matérias-primas. É neste contexto que este trabalho de investigação é proposto. Pretende-se com este estudo avaliar a possibilidade de incorporação de resíduos agroflorestais na obtenção de argamassas mais sustentáveis. Serão analisadas diferentes formulações de argamassas à base de cal com adição de resíduos de resíduo de casca de amêndoa e de cinza de caroço de azeitona e realizados ensaios de caracterização mecânica e de absorção de água. Será também efetuada uma análise comparativa entre as diferentes composições de argamassas em estudo, bem como a verificação da sua adequação aos requisitos regulamentares. Introdução A problemática das alterações climáticas, da escassez de recursos e da elevada produção de resíduos com que a sociedade atual se depara exige a adoção de comportamentos mais sustentáveis que visem a mitigação dos efeitos nefastos no meio ambiente. O setor da construção assume um papel preponderante neste âmbito, dada a sua contribuição no elevado consumo de matérias-primas e na produção de resíduos, traduzindo-se consequentemente num aumento das emissões de CO2. As emissões de CO2 aumentaram para 9,95Gt em 2019, sendo a construção civil responsável por 38% destas emissões [1]. Neste contexto, mostra-se fundamental optar por práticas mais sustentáveis e que integrem os princípios de circularidade. Uma das formas consiste em incentivar a redução, reutilização, recuperação e reciclagem de resíduos e subprodutos. Resíduos que até então eram depositados na natureza ou incinerados por se
... Global almond production for 2018/19 is an estimated 1.4 million metric tons (USDA, 2018). Botanists observed over 30 species, subspecies with ecotype (Grasselly, 1976;Ladizinsky, 1999). Genetically, Almond is diploid, the chromosome number is 2n = 2x = 16 with a genome size approximately 246 Mb (Sánchez-Pérez et al., 2019). ...
Genetic diversity of 38 almond local genotypes was investigated using RADP and ISSR markers with the analysis of nut morphology. Samples were taken from five locations for this study, including Sharbazher, Mergapan, Qaradakh, Barznja, and Hawraman. Almond nuts width, length and thickness were studied and their mean values were observed to range between 16.18-27.21 mm, 24.18-41.07 mm and 11.49-16.81 mm, respectively. Polymorphic bands of mean values were 9.5 for random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) and 8 for inter-simple sequence repeat (ISSR). The PIC values were recorded for RAPD primes to range between 0.77 to 0.97 and those for ISSR primers were also verified between 0.36 to 0.97. Based on Jaccard similarity coefficients, the genetic distances were recorded between 0.32 (B-G3 vs. B-G4) (M-G2 vs. M-G1) to 0.75 (H-G5 vs. Q-G1) and all genotypes were grouped into 3 major clusters (A, B and C) with a mean dissimilarity 0.535 for 20 RADP markers. In the case of the 15 ISSR markers, a genetic distance between 0.19 (H-G13 vs. H-G12) to 0.78 (H-G5 vs. B-G6) was also observed, with four clades (A, B, C and D) with a mean dissimilarity of 0.485. According to STRUCTURE analysis, all genotypes were divided into two groups. Analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) demonstrated a high-level genetic differentiation within a population 88% for RAPD and 87% for ISSR.
... For example, some root crop species, such as taro (Colocasia esculenta) and yams (Dioscorea spp.), have been continually grown in home gardens to renew the vigor of their germplasm for planting in larger fields [30]. Populations of wild or semi-wild fruit trees are frequently maintained near cultivated areas or in forests [31], and hybridized with cultivars grown for fruit production (e.g. wild apple and pear) [32], such that it can be difficult to separate true 'wild' forms from cultivated ones [32,33]. ...
Central Asia is an important center of origin for many globally valued fruit and nut tree species. Forest degradation and deforestation are cause for concern for the conservation of these valuable species, now confined to small remnant populations. Home gardens have the important function of sustaining household food consumption and income generation, and can potentially play a critical role in conserving diversity of fruit and nut trees. These systems have been very poorly documented in the scientific literature. This study contributes to filling this gap by describing the diversity of fruit and nut trees in home gardens of Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan, examining their dynamic flow of planting material and its sources, understanding their future prospects, and looking at significant differences between the three countries. Home gardens show a similar portfolio of the most abundant tree species (apple, apricot, walnut, pear, and plum). Although the diversity of tree species and varieties recorded is significant, small population sizes can limit future possibilities for this diversity to thrive, given the pressure on natural stands and on habitats where the preferred species are found. Furthermore, the selection of species and varieties to be planted in home gardens is increasingly influenced by market opportunities and availability of exotic material. Some of the most abundant tree species recorded are represented largely by exotic varieties (apple, pear), while others (e.g., apricot, walnut, plum) are still mainly characterized by traditional local varieties that are not formally registered. Home gardens continue to play a critical role in rural livelihoods and in national economies, and many rural inhabitants still aspire to maintain them. Thus, home gardens should be integrated in national research and extension systems and closely linked to national conservation efforts. Changes and possible declines in the diversity they host, their health status, and resilience should be carefully monitored.
... The almond is a large-seeded tree species with a dry shell enclosing a single lipid-rich endocarp, probably originating from southwest Asia and the eastern Mediterranean (Zohary and Hopf, 2000;Avanzato and Vassallo, 2006;Delplancke et al., 2013). The high nutritional value of its fruit and high commercial interest have favored its large cultivation since thousands of years, greatly expanding its original distribution and exposing it to different environmental conditions (Ladizinsky, 1999;Zeinalabedini et al., 2010). Although the almond has been frequently listed in non-native floras all around the world (Randall, 2017), its naturalization process has been rarely studied in the field (Homet-Gutierrez et al., 2015;Balaguer-Romano et al., 2021) and recent genetic evidences have detected very low variability between feral and cultivated almonds (Barea-Márquez et al., 2022). ...
Although Prunus dulcis has been frequently listed in non-native floras all around the world, its naturalization has been rarely studied in the field. Probably, because this species has generally invaded synanthropic habitats. We assessed the density of natural regeneration of almond, biometric parameters (height and basal stem diameter), and the distribution in life stage classes in three different ecological contexts in Sicily (Mediterranean Italy): one natural habitat (maquis), one pine afforestation and two prickly pear orchards. We recorded 236 naturally regenerating almond individuals, with density ranging from 140 individuals per hectare (prickly pear orchard 1) up to 2,400 individuals per hectare (pine afforestation). Despite the higher density, almond individuals presented the lowest height and basal stem diameter under pine afforestation, suggesting a more recent establishment. Reproductive individuals were dominant (67.8%), followed by pre-reproductive (22.1%), and juveniles (10.1%). Although the naturalization of the almond in Mediterranean contexts is not new, in the last two decades there is evidence of an increasing trend. Most importantly, for the first time, we found the almond thriving within a natural habitat in large areas covered by Mediterranean maquis. Since the almond appears to be perfectly integrated within local plant communities, the origin and meaning of this peculiar vegetation aspect deserve to be further deepened.
... Almond (Prunus amygdalus) is an Iranian native tree belonging to prunus genus and amygdalus subgenus, whose fruit being a drupe has an outer hull and a hard shell enclosing its seed (Ladizinsky, 1999). Though, almond seed is edible, its hard shell is always discarded as wastes. ...
Briquetting of biomass is an ideal technique for improvising both its volumetric and net energy density; besides, serving as an effective means for reducing pollution. In general, numerous biomass and organic by-products are discarded as wastes, citing their non-edibility, composition of chemical compounds present in their raw form, in addition to their zero usage value. Yet, these biomass wastes hold significant heating values, which promote them into promising solid biofuels, either in their existing or pre-treated form. Accordingly, this review article discusses about the various biomasses used as raw feedstock for briquetting, besides summarising the works carried out in relevance to their respective briquettes. In addition, proximate and lignocellulosic composition of these biomasses, and their pre-treatment techniques followed to prepare them for briquetting, have also been discussed. This study suggested that the heating value of biomasses ranged between 10- 20 MJ/kg, whilst, their briquettes reported between 15 and 25 MJ/kg; thereby citing their potential as a viable replacement for existing fossil coals. Besides, factors affecting different thermal and physicochemical properties of these briquettes have also been studied and concluded that these properties play a crucial role in deciding the overall quality of the briquettes. Ultimately, this study proposed that any biomass with good calorific value and lignin content can be processed into briquettes with good strength and durability; however, the choice of biomass will also be accounted for by its availability, geographical distribution, and handleability.
... A amendoeira (Prunus dulcis) é uma cultura com origem nas regiões quentes do sudoeste asiático (Ladizinsky, 1999). Com o passar dos anos, esta cultura foi-se instalando à volta da bacia do mediterrâneo, encontrando-se actualmente distribuída por todo o mundo. ...
In the present work, the effect of roasting and the preservation time of almonds of a traditional Portuguese variety, Duro Italiano, was studied. For this, six batches of almond kernels were formed, in which three of them were roasted, while the rest were not subjected to any treatment. Subsequently, half of the samples were stored at room temperature and exposed to light, while the other half was placed at 50 ºC. Over four weeks, various physicochemical and sensory parameters were evaluated. There were no significant changes in aw, both in raw and roasted almonds, when stored at room temperature, with average values of 0.47, while in almonds placed at 50 ºC, a lower value was found (0.21). The colour of the exterior kernel presented some significant changes, which were less visible in the interior of the kernel. Sensory evaluation showed a slight decrease in hardness along storage, and at the level of defects, the appearance of slight rancidity after four weeks, in raw and roasted kernels, both placed at 50 ºC, was detected. The results indicate that the kernels of this traditional variety, even when placed under adverse conditions of conservation, remain in conditions to be consumed.
... Almonds were one of the first domesticated fruit trees. As early as the Early Bronze Age (3000-2000 BC), domesticated almonds appeared in archaeological sites in Numeira (Jordan) [8]. Tutankhamun's tomb in Egypt (ca. ...
World production of shelled almonds has reached 3.2 million tonnes (FAO 2020). Almond production has grown during the last decennium, also because of the consumer conviction that almonds have significant health benefits. Almonds have exceptional nutritional and organoleptic characteristics, and proper assessment of the quality of almonds is of utmost importance. Almonds have a nutritional value that is relatively low in total sugars (4.35 g/100 g of almonds) but rich in lipids, proteins, minerals, vitamins, and phytonutrients, making them a healthy and nutritious food. The almond kernel is particularly rich in protein, the second most important fraction after the lipid fraction. The protein content of almond kernel depends on the cultivar and varies from 8.4% to 35.1%. This review examines current advancements in the quality assessment of almonds, evidencing above all their nutritional characteristics, health benefits and the influence of processing on shelf life. Our aim was to provide an overview in order to improve the quality of almonds and the sustainability of the whole production. According to the literature, almonds can provide many health benefits and are a great economic resource. This review will help almond producers to choose the best cultivars to cultivate and, in the final analysis, enhance the qualitative characteristics of almonds. Our review is also an important resource for scientists. It provides state of the art research and can offer inspiration for other researchers.
... Almond (Amygdalus communis L.) is one of the world's important nut trees [1,2], cultivated on 1.9 million hectares and producing more than 2.1 million tonnes [3]. Almond belongs to gametophytic self-incompatible tree species [4,5]. ...
The self-incompatibility recognition mechanism determines whether the gametophyte is successfully fertilized between pollen tube SCF (SKP1–CUL1–F-box-RBX1) protein and pistil S-RNase protein during fertilization is unclear. In this study, the pistils of two almond cultivars ‘Wanfeng’ and ‘Nonpareil’ were used as the experimental materials after self- and nonself/cross-pollination, and pistils from the stamen-removed flowers were used as controls. We used fluorescence microscopy to observe the development of pollen tubes after pollination and 4D-LFQ to detect the protein expression profiles of ‘Wanfeng’ and ‘Nonpareil’ pistils and in controls. The results showed that it took 24–36 h for the development of the pollen tube to 1/3 of the pistil, and a total of 7684 differentially accumulated proteins (DAPs) were identified in the pistil after pollinating for 36 h, of which 7022 were quantifiable. Bioinformatics analysis based on the function of DAPs, identified RNA polymerases (4 DAPs), autophagy (3 DAPs), oxidative phosphorylation (3 DAPs), and homologous recombination (2 DAPs) pathways associated with the self-incompatibility process. These results were confirmed by parallel reaction monitoring (PRM), protein interaction and bioinformatics analysis. Taken together, these results provide the involvement of serine/threonine kinase protein in the reaction of pollen tube recognition the nonself- and the self-S-RNase protein.
Significance
Gametophytic self-incompatibility (GSI) is controlled by the highly polymorphic S locus or S haplotype, with two linked self-incompatibility genes, one encoding the S-RNase protein of the pistil S-determinant and the other encoding the F-box/SLF/SFB (S haplotype-specific F-box protein) protein of the pollen S-determinant. The recognition mechanism between pollen tube SCF protein and pistil S-RNase protein is divided into nonself- and self-recognition hypothesis mechanisms. At present, two hypothetical mechanisms cannot explain the recognition between pollen and pistil well, so the mechanism of gametophytic self-incompatibility recognition is still not fully revealed. In this experiment, we investigated the molecular mechanism of pollen-pistil recognition in self-incompatibility using self- and nonself-pollinated pistils of almond cultivars ‘Wanfeng’ and ‘Nonpareil’. Based on our results, we proposed a potential involvement of the MARK2 (serine/threonine kinase) protein in the reaction of pollen tube recognition of the nonself- and the self-S-RNase protein. It provides a new way to reveal how almond pollen tubes recognize the self and nonself S-RNase enzyme protein.
... Orta Asya'da susuz, dağlık, kayalık ve engebeli bölgelerinde bulunan P. argentea yı bademe en yakın yabani tür olarak tanımlamışlardır (Browicz ve Zohary, 1996). Ladizinsky (1999), P. fenzliana'nın kültür bademin yabani atası olduğunu belirtmiş, bunun yanında, Balkan ...
zet Türkiye, badem ve şeftali üretimi bakımından Dünyada önde gelen ülkelerdendir. Badem ve şeftali üreticilerimiz için de önemli meyvelerdir. Ülkemizde klonal anaç konusunda problemler vardır. Tescil edilmiş, klonal olarak çoğaltılan ve nematoda dayanıklı badem ve şeftali anacımız yoktur. Bu konuda yabancı ülkelere bağımlıyız. Türkiye'de son yıllarda ıslah edilen klonal, nematoda dayanıklı yeni badem ve şeftali anaçları vardır. Bu anaçlar henüz tescil edilmemiştir. Üzerinde çalışmalar devam etmektedir. Bu tez çalışması 2019-2020 yıllarında Gaziantep ve Kahramanmaraş'ta yürütülmüştür. Proje ile yeni ıslah edilen klonal, nematoda dayanıklı badem ve şeftali anaçlarının çelikle çoğaltım performanslarının belirlenmesi amaçlanmıştır. Atlı ve ark. (2019 ve 2021) nın iki TUBİTAK projesi kapsamında ıslah ettiği 16 melez ve 4 ebeveyn (Kontrol) materyal olarak kullanılmıştır. Melezler ve ebeveynlerin (20 adet) odun çelikleri Şubat ayı başında hazırlanmış, 4 IBA (Indol Butirik Asit) dozu (0 ppm, 2000 ppm, 4000 ppm, 6000 ppm) uygulanmıştır. Her IBA dozu için 16 çelik, 3 yinelemeli olacak şekilde, toplam 960 çelik kullanılmıştır. Köklenme ortamına alınan çeliklerin; köklenme yüzdeleri, kök sayıları ve kök uzunlukları saptanmıştır. Melezlerin çelikleri genel olarak 2000 ppm lik IBA dozunda en iyi sonucu vermiştir. Çalıştığımız melezler içerisinde en iyi sonucu da FG-69 nolu melez vermiştir. Yaptığımız araştırmada FG-69 nolu melezin odun çeliklerine 2000 ppm IBA uygulaması sonucunda; köklenme oranı %94.3, kök uzunluğu 12.33 cm, kök sayısı 12.8 adet olarak elde edilmiştir.
Abstract Turkey is one of the leading countries in the world in terms of almond and peach production. Almond and peach are also important fruits for our producers. There are problems about clonal rootstock in our country. We do not have registered, clonally propagated and nematode-resistant almond and peach rootstocks. We are dependent on foreign countries in this regard. There are clonal, nematode-resistant new almond and peach rootstocks that have been bred in Turkey in recent years. These rootstocks have not been registered yet. Work on it continues. This thesis study was carried out in Gaziantep and Kahramanmaraş in 2019-2020. With the project, it was aimed to determine the propagation performance by cuttings of newly bred clonal, nematode-resistant almond and peach rootstocks. Atli et al. (2019 and 2021) have concluded two TUBITAK projects, they had bred 16 hybrid rootstocks. We used 16 rootstocks and 4 control rootstocks as material in our project. Wood cuttings of hybrids and parents (20 pieces) were prepared in early February, 4 doses of IBA (Indole Butyric Acid) (0 ppm, 2000 ppm, 4000 ppm, 6000 ppm) were applied. A total of 960 cuttings were used, with 16 cuttings and 3 replications for each IBA dose. The cuttings taken into the rooting medium; rooting percentages, root numbers and root lengths and shoot lengths were determined. The cuttings of the hybrids generally gave the best results at the 2000 ppm IBA dose. Among the hybrids we studied, the FG-69 hybrid gave the best results. In our research, as a result of the application of 2000 ppm IBA to the wood cuttings of the FG-69 hybrid; Rooting rate was 94.3%, root length was 12.33 cm, root number was 12.8 piece.
... Orta Asya'da susuz, dağlık, kayalık ve engebeli bölgelerinde bulunan P. argentea yı bademe en yakın yabani tür olarak tanımlamışlardır (Browicz ve Zohary, 1996). Ladizinsky (1999), P. fenzliana'nın kültür bademin yabani atası olduğunu belirtmiş, bunun yanında, Balkan ...
Türkiye, badem ve şeftali üretimi bakımından Dünyada önde gelen ülkelerdendir. Badem ve şeftali üreticilerimiz için de önemli meyvelerdir. Ülkemizde klonal anaç konusunda problemler vardır. Tescil edilmiş, klonal olarak çoğaltılan ve nematoda dayanıklı badem ve şeftali anacımız yoktur. Bu konuda yabancı ülkelere bağımlıyız. Türkiye’de son yıllarda ıslah edilen klonal, nematoda dayanıklı yeni badem ve şeftali anaçları vardır. Bu anaçlar henüz tescil edilmemiştir. Üzerinde çalışmalar devam etmektedir. Bu tez çalışması 2019 -2020 yıllarında Gaziantep ve Kahramanmaraş’ta yürütülmüştür. Proje ile yeni ıslah edilen klonal, nematoda dayanıklı badem ve şeftali anaçlarının çelikle çoğaltım performanslarının belirlenmesi amaçlanmıştır. Atlı ve ark. (2019 ve 2021) nın iki TUBİTAK projesi kapsamında ıslah ettiği 16 melez ve 4 ebeveyn (Kontrol) materyal olarak kullanılmıştır. Melezler ve ebeveynlerin (20 adet) odun çelikleri Şubat ayı başında hazırlanmış, 4 IBA (Indol Butirik Asit) dozu (0 ppm, 2000 ppm, 4000 ppm, 6000 ppm) uygulanmıştır. Her IBA dozu için 16 çelik, 3 yinelemeli olacak şekilde, toplam 960 çelik kullanılmıştır. Köklenme ortamına alınan çeliklerin; köklenme yüzdeleri, kök sayıları, kök uzunlukları, sürgün sayıları ve sürgün uzunlukları saptanmıştır. Melezlerin çelikleri genel olarak 2000 ppm lik IBA dozunda en iyi sonucu vermiştir. Çalıştığımız melezler içerisinde en iyi sonucu da FG-69 nolu melez vermiştir. Yaptığımız araştırmada FG-69 nolu melezin odun çeliklerine 2000 ppm IBA uygulaması sonucunda; köklenme oranı %94.3, kök uzunluğu 12.33 cm, kök sayısı 12.8 adet, sürgün sayısı 2.84 adet, olarak elde edilmiştir.
... Almond trees are unlike the plants of Xylella's tropical origin. They are adapted to arid lands, with wild relatives native to the region stretching from Central Asia westward to the Levant (Ladizinsky 1999). For the past few millennia almonds have accompanied farmers throughout the Mediterranean basin, as they are particularly well suited to the long, hot, and dry summers characteristic of the region. ...
Almonds were once “the gold of Mallorca,” a source of modest wealth and a pillar of diversified farming systems for smallholders on the largest of Spain’s Balearic Islands. Now researchers believe nearly every rainfed almond tree on the island will be dead within as few as five years. The introduced bacteria Xylella fastidiosa, enabled by its spittle-bug vector, and emboldened by climate change, has flooded the xylem of these rainfed trees, impeding the flow of fluid and nutrients to the point where the tree can no longer survive. This article enrolls feminist theorizations of care and agential realism to broaden the political scope and stakes of a plant epidemic. I argue that by attending to the care relations underlying pathogenicity we can shift from narratives of landscape purification toward a more-than-human politics of care. Abstracto Una vez las almendras eran “el oro de Mallorca,” una fuente de riqueza modesta y un pilar de un sistema de agricultura diversificada para los payeses (campesinos) de la isla más grande del archipiélago balear de España. Actualmente los investigadores creen que casi todos los almendros de la isla pueden morir dentro de cinco años. Una bacteria introducida,Xylella fastidiosa, apoyada por su insecto vector, el salivazo, y animada por el cambio climático, ha inundado la xilema de los almendros de secano, impidiendo la circulación de fluidos y nutrientes hasta el punto de que el árbol no puede sobrevivir. Este artículo emplea teorizaciones feministas del cuidado y del realismo agencial para ampliar el alcance político de una epidemia de plantas. Argumento que teniendo en cuenta las relaciones de cuidado subyacentes de la patogenicidad, podemos pasar de los temas de purificación del paisaje a una política más-que-humano del cuidado.
... Walnut provide a treatment therapy against depression due to presence of omega fatty acids as these fatty acids help towards overall brain health and can combat anxiety and psychiatric disorder (Logan, 2004) (Fig. 5) (Ladizinsky, 1999). Almond tree thrives well in sub-tropical regions from 30 to 40 o N and 750-3500 mm above sea level. ...
Mulberry, Ramulus Mori or Sangzhi, is a native of China. India is the second largest cultivar of mulberry in terms of acreage. The fruit is relinquished for its delicious taste, pleasing colour, low-calorie content and high nutrient value and has been in use as folk medicine for thousands of years for treating sore throat, anemia, and tonsillitis. Hydroxystilbenes, resveratrol and oxyresveratrol, the major bioactive compounds with potent neuro-protectant and cardioprotective effect, are found in mulberry. In addition, oxyresveratrol is known to inhibit tyrosinase and hamper biosynthesis of melanin, a pigment responsible for hyper pigmentation of skin in patients.
... Walnut provide a treatment therapy against depression due to presence of omega fatty acids as these fatty acids help towards overall brain health and can combat anxiety and psychiatric disorder (Logan, 2004) (Fig. 5) (Ladizinsky, 1999). Almond tree thrives well in sub-tropical regions from 30 to 40 o N and 750-3500 mm above sea level. ...
Almonds, one of the earliest domesticated trees, although a nut is botanically categorized as drupes of the Rosaceae family and sub-genus amygdalus. The fruit is a major crop of the state of J&K. FDA have listed almonds as nutrient dense food because of its rich nutritive profile and are thus considered healthiest and most nutritious. They are devoid of cholesterol and saturated fatty acids but are packed with all essential amino acids, omega-3 fatty acids and essential phenolics. European regulation has also categorized almonds as high fibre food. The bioactive compound present in almonds, amygadlin, is known for its potential health implications such as cholesterol control and body weight regulation. In addition, almonds consumption is beneficial for patients suffering from hypercholesteremia because of its rich fatty acid profile. Moreover, American Heart Association shows positive implications of almonds on individuals which are at a risk of developing CVD’s due to presence of bioactive phytochemicals. In addition, almonds are effective against cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes and certain carcinomas.
... Walnut provide a treatment therapy against depression due to presence of omega fatty acids as these fatty acids help towards overall brain health and can combat anxiety and psychiatric disorder (Logan, 2004) (Fig. 5) (Ladizinsky, 1999). Almond tree thrives well in sub-tropical regions from 30 to 40 o N and 750-3500 mm above sea level. ...
Grapes have been cultivated from times immemorial and are considered an important horticultural produce commercially. Grapes are low in fat, cholesterol and sodium but high in ascorbic acid, retinol, phosphorus and caffeic acid, a strong cancer-fighting agent. Resveratrol, biologically active and well-characterized constituent of grape, which is present in abundance in the flesh of fruit is known for its various medicinal properties. It has high antioxidant activity. In addition, resveratrol is reported to strongly exhibit chemo-preventive and antineoplastic activity. Besides resveratrol, phytoalexin, oleanolic acid are present in abundance in grapes with reported positive health implications.Family:VitaceaeGenus:VitisSpecies:Vitis viniferaLocal name:Angoor, dach Family: Vitaceae Genus: Vitis Species: Vitis vinifera Local name: Angoor, dach
... The model results showed that under the current climatic conditions, the environmental suitability of P. dulcis lies within southern Xinjiang in China, the countries around the Mediterranean, the west coast of the United States, southern South America, southern Africa and southern Australia. This finding fits with our field observations and the known distribution reported in the literature (Browicz and Zohary, 1996;Ladizinsky, 1999). ...
Almond resources are widely distributed in Central Asia; its distribution has not been studied in detail. Based on the first-hand data of field investigation, climate variables and chloroplast genome data, climatic characteristics of six almond species in China were analyzed, and the global distribution and evolutionary relationship were predicted. The six almond species are concentrated between 27.99°N and 60.47°N. Different almond species have different climatic characteristics. The climate of the almond species distribution has its characteristics, and the distribution of almond species was consistent with the fatty acid cluster analysis. All the test AUC (area under curve) values of MaxEnt model were larger than 0.92. The seven continents except for Antarctica contain suitable areas for the six almond species, and such areas account for approximately 8.08% of the total area of these six continents. Based on the analysis of chloroplast DNA and the distribution characteristics, the evolutionary relationship of the six almond species was proposed, which indicated that China was not the origin of almond. In this study, the construction of a phylogenetic tree based on the chloroplast genome and the characteristics of geographical distribution were constructed. The six almond species in China may have evolved from “Unknown almond species” through two routes. The MaxEnt model for each almond species provided satisfactory results. The prediction results can provide the important reference for Prunus dulcis cultivation, wild almond species development and protection.
Almond is a nut tree species of worldwide economic importance. Almond breeding programs have been crucial to develop new cultivars that meet both environmental challenges and economic demands, always taking into account the needs of industry. With the introduction of genomic technologies, detection of trait genetics, developments in automated phenotyping and micropropagation techniques, development of cultivars can be significantly accelerated. Molecular markers for single-gene traits have been and will continue to be progressed. For polygenic traits, pyramiding traits using modeling, CRISPR technology and genomic predictions holds potential. Altogether these developing technologies will only assist the foundation of traditional plant breeding.KeywordsBreedingGenomicsRootstockMolecular markersMarker-assisted breeding
Almond species, in addition to their historical importance as food crops, are becoming increasingly utilized in reforestation, ecological restoration, and urban landscaping. Their historical distribution extends across Central Asia, displaying adaptation to a wide range of ecological niches and resulting in an exceptionally high genetic diversity that drives the continuing evolution of multiple ecotypes, species, subspecies, and strains. An understanding of the genetic and evolutionary relationships among different species is important for estimating both horticultural and breeding values. Almond improvement is currently limited by relatively narrow breeding germplasm, with genetic improvement programs increasingly turning to wild relatives as a source for improved climate resilience, kernel quality and productivity, and resistance to diseases and pests. Exotic almond germplasm is also enabling the sometimes-dramatic transformation of traditional cropping systems, as with the transfer of self-fruitfulness from related species to normally self-sterile cultivated almonds.
Parallel evolution usually occurs among related species with similar morphological characters in adaptation to particular environments. Four wild almond species (Prunus) sharing the character of dry mesocarp splitting are distributed in China, most of which occur in arid Northwestern China. In the present study, we aimed to clarify the phylogenetic relationship, evolutionary history, and environmental adaptation of these wild almond species based on genome-wide SNP data and chloroplast genomes. Chloroplast phylogeny showed P. pedunculata and P. tenella were clustered with wild cherry species (Prunus), while P. mongolica and P. tangutica were clustered with wild peach species (Prunus). Genomic phylogeny suggested P. tenella formed an independent clade. An ABC-RF approach showed P. pedunculata was merged with P. tenella and, then, diverged from the ancestor of P. mongolica and P. tangutica. P. tenella was split from other wild almond species at ca. 7.81 to 17.77 Ma. Genetic environment association analysis showed precipitation variables contributed the most to genetic variations between P. mongolica from an arid environment and P. tangutica from a humid environment. Finally, a total of 29 adaptive loci were successfully annotated, which were related to physiological processes in response to abiotic stresses. Inconsistent genomic and chloroplast phylogenetic positions of P. tenella suggested this species could have originated from historical hybridization among different clades of Prunus. Physiological mechanisms promoted P. mongolica in adapting to the arid environment in Northwestern China.
Nuts consumption has increased significantly in the last 10 years, especially driven by the stimulated awareness of their possible beneficial health effects. Increased nuts consumption is linked to an obvious accumulation of by-products and waste. With the view of the circular economy, the aim of this review is to analyse the recent and innovative approaches able to valorise the by-products derived from almonds and hazelnuts, two important nut products of the Italian scene, with historical and traditional importance. The most important solutions are concerned with reuse of almond hull, shell, skin, oil cake, and hazelnut shell; skin and oil cake are often considered waste or by-products. Many interesting implications in the feed and food sectors have been detected in the last ten years, aimed at designing innovative materials developed from by-products and extraction of bioactive molecules for different purposes. The perspective chosen to discuss the topic is related to the sustainability of these processes, in terms of both the environment and economy. The circular economy supports a zero-waste approach, which should not also be meant as a zero-cost process in terms of the level of technology that has been partially developed.
To compare water stress tolerance traits between different fruit tree species under the same experimental conditions can provide valuable information for understanding the mechanisms underlying water stress tolerance in a broader sense. This work aimed to determine and compare the water stress tolerance of six fruit tree species typically cultivated in Mediterranean regions, i.e., pomegranate, fig, mandarin, avocado, and two Prunus species ('R40' and 'R20') and evaluate its association with water use and growth under water deficit. Iso-anisohydric behavior (low to high water stress tolerance) was assessed through a multi-trait approach and associated with growth and water use under well-watered and water deficit conditions. Avocado and mandarin were classified as species with stricter stomatal control over water potential, while pomegranate, fig, and Prunus spp. showed a lesser stomatal control. This classification was supported by the multi-traits analysis, which showed that avocado and mandarin, in contrast to the rest of the species, were characterized by more sensitive gas-exchange thresholds. A more isohydric behavior was associated with lower soil water use capacity, but higher root hydraulic conductivity, and a lower growth capacity. Some traits, such as the fraction of transpirable soil water thresholds, root hydraulic conductivity, and residual soil water content, provide valuable information to discriminate between species or genotypes that are better adapted to water deficit conditions. These traits explain the position of the species in the iso-anisohydric spectrum and allow us to understand and develop better strategies for water management in agricultural systems.
Background
Genetic differences between isolated endemic populations of plant species and those with widely known twin species are relevant for conserving the biological diversity of our planet’s flora. Prunus ledebouriana (Schlecht.) YY Yao is an endangered and endemic species of shrub almond from central Asia. Few studies have explored this species, which is closely related and morphologically similar to the well-known Prunus tenella Batsch. In this article, we present a comparative analysis of studies of three P. ledebouriana populations and one close population of P. tenella in Eastern Kazakhstan in order to determine the particular geographic mutual replacement of the two species.
Methods
The populations were collected from different ecological niches, including one steppe population near Ust-Kamenogorsk ( P. tenella ) and three populations ( P. ledebouriana ) in the mountainous area. Estimation of plant height using a t -test suggested a statistically significant difference between the populations and the two species ( P < 0.0001). DNA simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers were applied to study the two species’ genetic diversity and population structure.
Results
A total of 19 polymorphic SSR loci were analyzed, and the results showed that the population collected in mountainous areas had a lower variation level than steppe populations. The highest level of Nei’s genetic diversity index was demonstrated in the 4-UK population (0.622) of P. tenella . The lowest was recorded in population 3-KA (0.461) of P. ledebouriana , collected at the highest altitude of the four populations (2,086 meters above sea level). The total genetic variation of P. ledebouriana was distributed 73% within populations and 27% between populations. STRUCTURE results showed that two morphologically similar species diverged starting at step K = 3, with limited population mixing. The results confirmed the morphological and genetic differences between P. tenella and P. ledebouriana and described the level of genetic variation for P. ledebouriana . The study’s results proved that the steppe zone and mountain altitude factor between P. tenella and isolated mountain samples of P. ledebouriana .
Domestication drastically changed crop genomes, fixing alleles of interest and creating different genetic populations. Genome-wide association studies (GWASs) are a powerful tool to detect these alleles of interest (and so QTLs). In this study, we explored the genetic structure as well as additive and non-additive genotype-phenotype associations in a collection of 243 almond accessions. Our genetic structure analysis strongly supported the subdivision of the accessions into five ancestral groups, all formed by accessions with a common origin. One of these groups was formed exclusively by Spanish accessions, while the rest were mainly formed by accessions from China, Italy, France and the USA. These results agree with archaeological and historical evidence that separate modern almond dissemination into four phases: Asiatic, Mediterranean, Californian and southern hemisphere. In total, we found 13 independent QTLs for nut weight, crack-out percentage, double kernels percentage and blooming time. Of the 13 QTLs found, only one had an additive effect. Through candidate gene analysis, we proposed Prudul26A013473 as a candidate gene responsible for the main QTL found in crack-out percentage, Prudul26A012082 and Prudul26A017782 as candidate genes for the QTLs found in double kernels percentage, and Prudul26A000954 as a candidate gene for the QTL found in blooming time. Our study enhances our knowledge of almond dissemination history and will have a great impact on almond breeding.
Compare water stress tolerance traits between different fruit tree species under the same experimental conditions can provide valuable information for understanding the mechanisms underlying water stress tolerance. This work aimed to determine and compare the water stress tolerance of six fruit tree species typically cultivated in Mediterranean regions and evaluate its association with water use and growth under water deficit. Six fruit tree species were used in this study: pomegranate, fig, mandarin, avocado, and two Prunus species ('R40' and 'R20'). Iso-anisohydric behavior (low to high water stress tolerance) was assessed through a multi-trait approach and associated with growth and water use under well-watered and water deficit conditions. Avocado and mandarin were classified as species with more strict stomatal control over water potential, while pomegranate, fig, and Prunus spp. showed less stomatal control. This classification was supported by the multi-traits analysis, which showed that avocado and mandarin, in contrast to the rest of the species, were characterized by higher gas-exchange thresholds (more sensitive). A more isohydric behavior was associated with lower water, but higher root hydraulic conductivity, and a lower growth capacity. Some traits, such as the FTSW threshold to the drop of relative transpiration, root hydraulic conductivity, and residual soil water content, provide valuable information to discriminate between species or genotypes that are better adapted to water deficits. These traits explain the position of the species in the iso-anisohydric spectrum and allow us to understand and develop better strategies for water management in agricultural systems.
A problemática das alterações climáticas, da escassez de recursos e da elevada produção de resíduos com que a sociedade se depara exige a adoção de comportamentos mais sustentáveis, com especial ênfase nos setores económicos com maior contribuição para o panorama atual, como é o caso do setor da construção. Mostra-se, portanto, fundamental a adoção de soluções construtivas mais sustentáveis que contribuam para a redução do consumo de recursos e que potenciem a reciclagem e reutilização de resíduos. Atenção acrescida tem sido dada à valorização de resíduos e subprodutos provenientes das diversas atividades económicas e à sua utilização como matéria-prima na obtenção de novos materiais numa perspetiva de economia circular e de criação de valor. Diversos investigadores têm proposto a utilização de bio resíduos em materiais de construção, como agregados ou ligantes, solucionando, por um lado, os possíveis problemas inerentes à eliminação de bio resíduos, dada a valorização que lhes é atribuída e, por outro lado, a diminuição na utilização de matérias-primas. É neste contexto que este trabalho de investigação é proposto. Pretende-se com este estudo avaliar a possibilidade de incorporação de resíduos agroflorestais na obtenção de argamassas mais sustentáveis. Serão analisadas diferentes formulações de argamassas à base de cal com adição de resíduos de resíduo de casca de amêndoa e de cinza de caroço de azeitona e realizados ensaios de caracterização mecânica e de absorção de água. Será também efetuada uma análise comparativa entre as diferentes composições de argamassas em estudo, bem como a verificação da sua adequação aos requisitos regulamentares.
Almond ( Prunus dulcis (Mill.) D.A.Webb) known as ‘‘Badam” or King of Nuts is a species of tree native to the Mediterranean region. Almonds are prone to a large number of viruses and among these Prunus necrotic ringspot virus (PNRSV) is economically the most important virus prevalent in almond orchards posing threat to their commercial production. Symptoms of PNRSV develop as diffused chlorotic rings or spots which later forms necrotic ‘‘shot holes’’ in leaves or rugosity and typical mosaic accompanied by reduced leaf size. Studies were conducted to ascertain the role of serological indexing in early detection of PNRSV. Alkaline phosphatase based DAS-ELISA was performed on leaf samples drawn from selected symptomatic plants in almond orchards and results based on O.D. values confirmed the presence of PNRSV in almond. RT- PCR was specifically used to characterize PNRSV isolated from leaves of infected almond trees.
The main ingredient in marzipan is sweet almonds (Prunus dulcis var. dulcis). Bitter almonds (Prunus dulcis var. amara) are also added to create a more intense flavour. In Germany the proportion of bitter almonds in marzipan is limited to a maximum of 12%. The use of debittered bitter almonds is prohibited. However, currently no analytical technique can reliably monitor compliance with this legal requirement. In this study we used next-generation sequencing technology to sequence the plastid genomes of six sweet cultivars (Larguetta, Ferragnes, Nonpareil, Carmel, Monterey, and Marcona) and six bitter almond batches of different origin (Iran, Morocco, Kyrgyzstan, Spain, Syria, and Turkey) to locate single nucleotide variants (SNVs). Sweet and bitter almonds share the same maternal lineage, but sequence variants on the plastid genome were present in most bitter almond populations. To exploit these differences for detection of bitter almonds in processed products, we used the double-mismatch allele-specific qPCR (DMAS-qPCR) for two polymorphic loci (rpoB, rps4). We provide evidence that the rps4 variant was detectable in almond raw pastes containing (debittered) bitter almonds, showing that the DNA sequence was sufficiently stable throughout food processing. A clear distinction from sweet almonds was observed for samples that contained at least 8% of bitter almonds. Our results present a promising approach to detect adulterations with bitter almonds in marzipan.
In recent years, temperate nut tree breeding programmes have been accelerated as a result of the increasing demand for their production. High yield with desirable kernel characteristics and disease-resistance are the main breeding objectives of temperate nut trees cultivars. In addition, leading challenges especially global warming and climate change dictate new objectives such as low-chilling requirements and tolerance to late-spring and early-autumn frosts, etc. Various conventional and molecular strategies are used to achieve these breeding objectives. The utilisation of genetic resources and targeted hybridisation are the main conventional breeding strategies of temperate nut trees which along with molecular breeding can help to accelerate the breeding programmes. The advancement of genome sequencing technologies, high-quality and quantity of molecular data accelerated breeding programmes and lowered their price for temperate tree nut crops. Therefore, future researches in breeding of tree nut trees should be directed towards construction of fully annotated reference genomes, discovery of genes controlling traits of interest and finding molecular markers linked to these genes to be used for marker assisted selection (MAS) or genomic selection (GS), through constructing saturated linkage maps, QTLs mapping, genome-wide association mapping, along with omics techniques. In this chapter, some important breeding objectives and strategies of temperate nut trees including walnuts, pistachios, almonds, pecans, hazelnuts and chestnut have been discussed with emphasis on recent findings.KeywordsAlmondChestnutConventional breedingHazelnutMolecular breedingPecanPistachioWalnut
Abstract Almond (Prunus dulcis [Mill.] D.A.Webb) is one of the earliest domesticated trees and the evidence dates back to 3000–2000 BC. In the present study, 198 almond seedling origin trees were studied to select late‐flowering genotypes having high kernel quality. Significant variabilities were exhibited among the genotypes investigated based on the recorded traits. Full‐blooming date ranged from mid‐March to mid‐April. The Ward dendrogram clustered the genotypes into two major clusters forming several subclusters. After clustering the genotypes based on the full‐blooming dates, 68 late‐blooming genotypes were recognized and reanalyzed based on the quantitative characters to select the superior ones. Nut‐related characters were as follows: nut length: 22.34–43.05 mm, nut width: 14.07–24.34 mm, nut thickness: 9.21–18.00 mm, nut weight: 1.88–6.62 g, and shell thickness: 2.26–4.59 mm. Kernel‐related characters were as follows: kernel length: 16.73–25.91 mm, kernel width: 8.50–13.64 mm, kernel thickness: 3.56–7.37 mm, and kernel weight: 0.35–1.41 g. Kernel weight was positively and significantly associated with nut weight, kernel thickness, kernel length, kernel width, nut length, and branch leaf width. Thus, these key variables are the main traits accounting for kernel weight, and they should be considered together in breeding with aiming at increasing the kernel weight. Based on ideal values of the important and commercial characters of almond, such as fruit yield, nut weight, shell hardness, kernel shape, kernel weight, and kernel taste, 19 late‐blooming genotypes were promising and are recommended for cultivation in orchards.
The present study was conducted at the nursery of the College of Agricultural Engineering Sciences; University of Duhok, Kurdistan Region, Iraq, during growing season (2020) to evaluate the effects of foliar sprays of three concentrations of aminoplasmal (0, 50 and 100 ml.L-1), concentrations of humic acid (0, 100 and 200 ml.L-1) and boron (0, 50 and 100 mg.L-1) on vegetative growth and nutritional status of one year old almond seedling (Prunus amygdalus). The factorial experiment within randomized complete block design was used with three replicates. Foliar spraying applied at two times. First spray was carried out on 25th of April and the other on 27th of May. Results indicated that foliar spray of aminoplasmal at 100 ml.L-1 significantly increased all vegetative growth characteristics (stem length, stem diameter, number of branches/seedling, number of leaves / seedling, chlorophyll, leaf area, leaf fresh weight, leaf dry weight), and significantly increase leave nutritional status (N, P, K and B). Humic acid at conc. (200 ml.L-1) and boric acid at conc. (100 mg.L-1) cause significant increases in all studied traits. In combination, the triple interaction between 100 ml.L-1 aminoplasmal with 200 ml.L-1 humic acid and 100 mg.L-1 boron was the most affected one which surpassed significantly on the control treatment and other treatments. In general, in this study, it was discovered that treatments with aminoplasmal, humic acid and boron significantly increased vegetative growth and nutritional status of almond seedling.
Aims: In the study carried out, the pomological and morphological characteristics of 13 genotypes belonging to Amygdalus orientalis (Mill) species and 8 genotypes belonging to Amygdalus turcomanica (Lincz) species selected in Gaziantep were tried to be determined. Methods and Results: In the study, shelled fruit weight (g), shelled fruit dimensions (length, width, height) (mm), shell thickness (mm), the kernel weight (g), double kernel rate (%), leaf length (cm), leaf width (cm), leaf color, and leaf area (cm2) were determined. As a result of the study, the average shelled and kernel weight, width, height and height values of Amygdalus orientalis (Mil) genotypes were higher than Amygdalus turcomanica (Lincz) genotypes in both years of the study. Nut weight varied between 0.38 g and 0.99 g in Amygdalus orientalis (Mill) genotypes, while it varied between 0.41 g and 0.95 g in Amygdalus turcomanica (Lincz) genotypes. Fruits were longer in Amygdalus orientalis (Mill) genotypes compared to Amygdalus turcomanica (Lincz) genotypes, and larger and thicker in Amygdalus turcomanica (Lincz) genotypes, and the shell thickness of this species was higher. The kernel properties were also performed in parallel with the shelled features. It was determined that Amygdalus turcomanica (Lincz) genotypes had more stems, dense crowned, more thorny, green leaves and smaller sizes compared to Amygdalus orientalis (Mill) genotypes. Conclusions: It has been determined that tree size, stem number, leaf colors and fruit characteristics can be used in species identification. Considering the size of the tree, it was concluded that it can be considered as a dwarf rootstock, and it is necessary to determine the compatibility and rootstock capability for other stone fruit species, especially almonds. Significance and Impact of the Study: Wild almond species are important genetic resources due to their resistance to adverse climatic and soil conditions and the possibility of being used as dwarf rootstock for Prunus species. In order for genetic resources to be used in breeding and production, all their characteristics should be determined. In this study, determining the pomological and morphological characteristics of two almond species that grow naturally in the flora of Turkey is the basis for breeding and breeding studies.
Almond oil, a rich source of macronutrients and micronutrients, is extracted for food flavorings and the cosmetics industry. In recent years, the need for high‐quality and high‐quantity production of almond oil for human consumption has been increased. The present review examines the chemical composition of almond oil, storage conditions, and clinical evidence supporting the health benefits of almond oil. From the reviewed studies, it appears that almond oil contains a significant proportion of poly and monounsaturated fatty acids, with oleic acid as the main compound, and an important amount of tocopherol and phytosterol content. Some variations in almond oil composition can be found depending on the kernel's origin and the extraction system used. Some new technologies such as ultrasonic‐assisted extraction, supercritical fluid extraction, subcritical fluid extraction, and salt‐assisted aqueous extraction have emerged as the most promising extraction techniques that allow eco‐friendly and effective recovery of almond oil. This safe oil was reported by several clinical studies to have potential roles in cardiovascular risk management, glucose homeostasis, oxidative stress reduction, neuroprotection, and many dermatologic and cosmetic applications. However, the anticarcinogenic and fertility benefits of almond oil have yet to be experimentally verified.
Charred plant remains, 19,000 years old, were uncovered at Ohalo II on the shore of the Sea of Galilee, Israel. The wild barley and other edible grasses and fruits found suggest, by their ripening seasons, that the site was occupied at least during spring and autumn. The species found provide insights into the subsistence strategy of the earliest known hunter-gatherer community of the Levantine Epipaleolithic period. In addition, the remains of barley rachis nodes provide new evidence distinguishing between domesticated and wild types in ancient archaeobotanical material.
The paper reviews the taxonomic relationships, morphological distinction, geographical distribution and ecological specificities of the twenty six species recognized (by us) in Amygdalus L. It also surveys the intra-genetic structure in this genus stressing the fact that they fall into five groups of closely related vicarious species: (i) Communis group (9 species), (ii) Orientalis group (6 species), (iii) Sect. Chamaeamygdalus (4 species), (iv) Sect. Spartioides (2 species), and (v) Subgenus Dodecandara (5 species). Within each group, species are separated from one another geographically (in few cases by altitude). The only major exception to such allopatric distribution is found in A. communis L., and this is interpreted as an outcome of domestication. Interspecific sterility barriers are absent, or only weakly developed in Amygdalus, and numerous inter-specific hybrids (particularly between the crop and various wild almond species) have been detected. Therefore most (may be all) wild almond species constitute the primary gene-pool of the cultivated nut crop.
The combined botanical and archaeological evidene points to the Levant countries as the place where the almond was taken into cultivation. Wild forms of A. communis are very likely native only to this area. Also the earliest archaeological signs of almond domestication come from this area.
Flora of the USSR vol
- V L Komarov
- B K Shiskin
- S V Yazepchlik
Flotation of the Bab edh-Dhra and Numeria plant remains
- D W Mccreery