preprints.org > biology and life sciences > horticulture > doi: 10.20944/preprints202307.0555.v1

Preprint Article Version 1 Preserved in Portico This version is not peer-reviewed

Version 1 : Received: 7 July 2023 / Approved: 10 July 2023 / Online: 10 July 2023 (10:21:07 CEST)

While human activities and climate change are threatening available natural ecosystems, targeted studies on the biological cycle, propagation, and cultivation of threatened species are crucial both for their conservation and sustainable exploitation. This study was designed to bridge extant research gaps regarding the vulnerable local endemic Campanula pelviformis, a wild edible green traditionally consumed in Crete (Greece) with agro-alimentary and medicinal interest as well as ornamental value. New knowledge was obtained on the abiotic environmental conditions prevailing in its wild habitats (natural distribution mapped in Geographical Information Systems and linked with open-source databases). We collected seeds from wild-growing populations (three lowland, two semi-mountainous), we tested their germination at four different temperatures (10, 15, 20 and 25oC) and under different light conditions (light/dark and darkness), and we performed fertilization trails [integrated nutrient management (INF), chemical fertilization (ChF), control] examining morphological and physiological characteristics, above- and below-ground macro- and micronutrients contents, as well as their phenol content and antioxidant capacity. There were population and temperature effects on seed germination and their interaction was statistically significant. Campanula pelviformis germinated better at 10 and 15 oC (>85% for all populations) with no preference on light conditions (98.75% and 95% in light and dark conditions). The INF application increased root dry mass, chlorophyll content index and chlorophyll fluorescence compared to other treatments and was beneficial for macro- and micronutrients concentrations in above-ground parts compared to previously studied wild-growing material, while below-ground parts were positively impacted by both fertilization types. Total phenols and antioxidant capacity were both increased by ChF fertilization. The data furnished herein led to the re-evaluation and upgrade of the feasibility and the readiness timescale for its sustainable exploitation in different economic sectors.

Endemic plants; GIS; integrated nutrient management; macronutrients; medicinal interest; micronutrients; neglected and underutilized species; ornamental value; phytogenetic resources; sustainable exploitation; wild edible greens

Biology and Life Sciences, Horticulture

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