Apricot Genetics and Biotechnology in Romania

The apricot genetic improvement programme performed in Romania between 1986-2006 included clearly formulated steps such as: wide species information, gene bank development based on worldwide exchange of the biological material, widened genetic variability through intra and interspecific hybrids, in vitro immature embryo research of interspecific hybrids from the Prunus genus, mutagenesis, genetic study of different valuable combinations in F1, F2, backcross generation, pollen grain study of various apricot phenotypes, molecular biology investigation, and tissue culture trials. Romania conserves a rich gene bank, including 655 apricot phenotypes originating from North America, Australia, Asia, and Europe. The genetic variability induced by conventional methods demonstrates that apricot-tree species still have genetic reserves for evolution. The reproductive barriers were overcome by the biotechnological methods applied after