Exploring Theobroma grandiflorum diversity to improve sustainability in smallholdings across Caquetá, Colombia

The genetic diversity of Theobroma grandiflorum (cupuassu) in Colombia is maintained by small-scale farmers. This study, conducted across nine municipalities in the Caquetá department, evaluated the phenotypic diversity and sustainability of cupuassu production systems. The General Sustainability Index indicated critically low sustainability levels (GSI=0.37), highlighting an urgent need for interventions to ensure the long-term viability of cupuassu cultivation. Environmental indicators recorded the lowest sustainability values among the evaluated dimensions, while social and economic dimensions also exhibited varying degrees of instability. The widespread presence of pathogens, particularly Moniliophthora roreri and M. perniciosa , further intensify these challenges, affecting both environmental integrity and economic stability. However, the phenotypic variability of cupuassu provides promising opportunities for sustainable cultivation through the development of a genetic improvement program. Several key genotypes were identified that may increase pulp and seed yield with nutritional quality. A significant negative correlation between pulp yield and fruit peel thickness (r=-0.61; p <0.001) suggests competition for photoassimilates. Canonical correlation analysis indicated that peel thickness could serve as a helpful indicator for identifying key biochemical traits, including almond ash content, almond solids, and °Brix values. In addition, regional preferences for agroforestry arrangements varied, with certain municipalities favouring cupuassu intercropped with species such as rubber ( Hevea brasiliensis ) and laurel ( Dacryodes peruviana ), while others preferred monoculture systems. This study aims to explore the phenotypic diversity of cupuassu in small-scale farms across Caquetá, Colombia, with the overarching goal of enhancing cultivation sustainability. Specifically, our objectives include assessing the overall sustainability of existing production systems, characterizing morphological and biochemical traits of cupuassu fruits, determining the incidence of major pathogens and pests, selecting promising genotypes for a genetic improvement program, and identifying the agroforestry preferences of producers.