Conservation of the genetic diversity of local corn (Zea mays L.) in the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico

Abstract

The production of native corn at regional level is greatly limited by the seasonality of rainfall, availability of adequate lands, poor fertility status of the soil, high input costs and constraints of resources of the local corn growers and/or producers. The challenges of reduced cultivable area give very little opportunity for increasing production area in a sustainable manner; it is important to note that the soil recover their fertility status through crop rotation and prolonged rest period (> 25 years) known as sequential agroforestry system or "milpa". During 2015, corn collections were performed in the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico that included five races from the Yucatan (in localities of Nohacal and Peto) and Campeche (Calakmul, Suc-Tuc, Sakabchen, I Chek) states. The races identified were: 1) Nal-Tel (gallito), 2) Dzit Bacal, 3) Xnu’uc Naal (Tuxpeño), 4) Palomero and, 5) Tabloncillo. The local varieties, Pix Cristo (Knees of Christ), Eh Hu (Purple maize) and Chac Chu’ub (Chac´s Blood or Red maize), are included within the Tuxpeño (Xnu´uk Naal) race. The land race of corn that is in imminent danger of extinction is Nal-Tel, characterized by its precocity and ability to escape periods of low rainfall; is important to rescue it for adoption to the practices of local and regional production. The adaptation of this race as a germplasm is important due to its resilience to climate change itself. Palomero, Tabloncillo, Pix Cristo, Chac Chu´ub and Eh Hu can thus be used in traditional food industry, to preserve the traditional knowledge and to provide opportunities for additional income for the local, rural communities. Yellow Palomero and Tabloncillo races are new records of germplasm for the region; and hence essential is exchanging their seeds among local producers and growers.