Phenotypic diversity and stability in <i>Morus alba</i>: a DUS-based approach for improved agroforestry and sericulture

Abstract Distinctness, uniformity and stability (DUS) studies are essential components of assessment and registration processes for plant varieties, including those within the Morus alba species, commonly known as white mulberry. M. alba L. holds a unique place in agriculture sciences due to its historical significance in silk production and its cultivation for its edible fruits. This study provides an overview of DUS studies in M. alba carried out in the Department of Tree Improvement and Genetic Resources, Dr Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan (Himachal Pradesh) India, highlighting the critical features and characteristics evaluated to distinguish between different cultivars. It explores the factors contributing to uniformity and the stability of these characteristics over time, emphasizing the importance of these studies in guiding breeding programmes, supporting agricultural practices and preserving the diversity within this species. The study includes DUS characterization of M. alba germplasm based on 3 qualitative, 11 pseudo-qualitative and 11 quantitative characteristics. DUS studies play a pivotal role in ensuring the accuracy of cultivar identification, thus facilitating the sustainable cultivation and conservation of M. alba , a species with deep-rooted cultural and economic significance. It is concluded that many varieties with distinct and distinguishable characteristics and better economic and genetic values can be registered for their protection under the PPV&amp;FR Act, 2001 and can be used in breeding programmes.