The state of natural populations of Bolivian wild potato species.

Within Bolivia, thirty nine wild taxa of potato are found. Here, they occur in four biogeographic provinces (Yungas, Puna Mesophytic, Puna Xerophytic and Bolivian-Tucuman) of the Andes Region at altitudes from 700 up to 4500 m, and in a wild range of habitats with pluviseasonal and xeric bioclimates, thermotropical to criotropical thermotypes and semiarid to humid ombrotypes. From 2006 to 2010, a number of exploration trips was scheduled in all four Bolivian biogeographic provinces in order to monitor the occurrence of wild potato populations in their natural habitats as a basis for designing in situ conservation plans. Based on the results of earlier expeditions, 19 species (one of which is considered to be of hybrid origin) and 40 collecting sites were selected to assess their in situ state. Populations of wild potatoes have been most affected by human activities in the Puna Mesophytic and Bolivian Tucuman biogeographic provinces. Here, human settlements have been intensified and further expanded, reducing the natural habitat for wild potatoes and displacing the into marginal areas around fields and human constructions. The smallest effect of human activities on the natural potato habitat was detected in the Yungas biogrographical province. Here, notably the difficult access to areas where wild potatoes grow has prevented habitat loss. The highest number of wild potatoes (at least 20) has been reported from the Bolivian Tucuman biogeographic province, most likely as a result of its diverse climate and marked altitudinal gradient (500 -> 5000m). Here,in large areas with a pronounced dry climate and xeric plant ecosystems, several wild potato species have developed drought tolerance. The represent valuable genetic material for breeding purposes, especially since drought is becoming one of the most severe problems due to the effect of climate change on potato producing areas in Bolivia. The species reported as being widespread in Bolivia were confirmed as such, indicating their strong capacity for resilience and adaption even to environments disturbed by human activities. This feature also indicates a widespread resistance to biotic and abiotic factors.

Publication year:2014

Accessibility:Open