Olea europaea subsp. cuspidata, a wild olive, is widely distributed in various regions. It faces challenges from climate change, habitat loss, and human activities. Understanding and addressing these challenges is crucial for conservation efforts. Decoding the genetic diversity of this wild plant is vital to preserving its identity. This review examines the genetic diversity of Olea europaea subsp. cuspidata using morphological, biochemical, and molecular markers. Biochemical markers, like fatty acids and phenolic compounds, are vital for assessing olive oil quality. Molecular markers, particularly SNPs, have superseded isozyme analysis, revealing correlations with biochemical markers and effectively evaluating genome-wide diversity for cultivar classification and phylogenetic analysis. Regional studies of Olea europaea subsp. cuspidata indicate high genetic diversity but low population differentiation. Marker-dependent analyses (SSRs, ISSRs, RAPDs) reveal variations in population structure. Gene flow, geographical proximity, and habitat fragmentation influence genetic differentiation, creating complex biogeographic patterns. Parameters like gene diversity (H) and genetic differentiation coefficients (FST, GST) are key for assessing genetic variability. This review provides insights into the genetic diversity of Olea europaea subsp. cuspidata, emphasizing its importance for conservation and sustainable use amidst environmental challenges and its contribution to crop genetic diversity studies.
Olea europaea; genetic diversity; molecular markers; biochemical; gene flow
Abayneh, L., Demissie, H., Menéndez, CM. (2026): Decoding Genetic Diversity in Subspecies cuspidata of Wild Olives. Scientia Agriculturae Bohemica, 57, 1, DOI: 10.7160/sab.2026.570107