Traditional varieties of cacao (<i>Theobroma cacao</i>) in Madagascar: their origin and dispersal revealed by SNP markers

Cacao (Theobroma cacao L.) is an important Neotropical crop originating in South America and dispersed by European explorers, arriving Madagascar the late 19th century. Although producer of cocoa for premium chocolate market, varietal composition genetic diversity cacao germplasm from Madagascar, especially traditional farms, remains unknown. A total 190 accessions, including 40 farmer accessions collected farms 150 representing seven reference populations, were analyzed using Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) markers. Multivariate analysis Bayesian stratification resulted clustering into three groups: Criollo, Amelonado Trinitario. These varieties commonly cultivated tropical 18th century, but most them have been replaced improved varieties. The present study demonstrated that distinctive all varieties, Trinitario, are still maintained on-farm production, as Mesoamerica Caribbean several hundred years ago. Results significant terms understanding early dispersal Asia to Africa, addition well-documented route Brazil São Tomé & Príncipe. results also provide new information planning future conservation utilization Madagascar.