Oman's Mango Gene Bank bolsters food security

The Sultanate of Oman is prioritizing the conservation of crop genetic resources as a cornerstone of sustainable agriculture and robust food security. Central to this effort is the establishment of genetic banks for key economic crops, viewed as a strategic investment in safeguarding national genetic wealth and fostering the development of resilient crop varieties.

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The conservation of crop genetic resources has become a fundamental pillar for ensuring the sustainability of agricultural production and reinforcing food security.

The Mango Gene Bank at the Sohar Agricultural Research Station exemplifies this commitment. It functions as an advanced center for preserving mango genetic resources, a vital fruit crop for Oman. The bank's mission extends beyond mere collection; it provides an integrated scientific foundation to support research and development, conserve agricultural biodiversity, and enhance the sustainability of mango production.

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The Mango Gene Bank at the Sohar Agricultural Research Station stands out as one of the most prominent national research projects.

Currently, the gene bank holds 252 mango varieties, including 62 distinct Omani cultivars. These local varieties are considered a national genetic treasure, showcasing significant diversity in fruit characteristics and ripening periods. Collected from across Oman and 23 other mango-producing countries, the bank is one of the largest field gene banks for mangoes in the region.

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Omani varieties take precedence within the gene bank's holdings, comprising 62 local cultivars that represent a national genetic treasure reflecting the agricultural diversity that distinguishes the Sultanate of Oman.

Beyond preservation, the gene bank actively engages in continuous scientific evaluation of all varieties. This research focuses on their productive traits and adaptability to various environmental conditions. The goal is to identify promising varieties for wider cultivation and to lay the groundwork for genetic improvement programs. These programs aim to develop new cultivars with higher yields, superior quality, and increased resistance to drought, heat, salinity, and pests, tailored to Oman's specific environment. The bank also utilizes cutting-edge technologies, including genetic fingerprinting and artificial intelligence, to enhance research efficiency and accelerate the development of climate-resilient mango varieties.

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The gene bank's function extends beyond preservation; all varieties are subject to continuous scientific evaluation programs to study their productive characteristics, fruit qualities, and tolerance to different environmental conditions.