University of California, Riverside Citrus Variety Collection

Citrus Experiment Station

University of California, Riverside Citrus Variety Collection

The University of California, Riverside Citrus Variety Collection is one of the world's most important living collections of citrus genetics. Located at the University of California, Riverside (UCR) in Riverside, California, this extensive collection is managed by the university's College of Natural and Agricultural Sciences. It serves as a critical resource for research, breeding, and educational purposes, focusing on the conservation, study, and utilization of citrus diversity.

History

The Citrus Variety Collection was established in the early 20th century, with the initial planting in 1910. It was created to support the citrus industry in California, which was rapidly growing at the time. The collection has since evolved to become a comprehensive repository of citrus genetic material, housing over 1,000 different types of citrus and citrus relatives from around the world. These include varieties of oranges, lemons, limes, grapefruits, and more exotic species and hybrids.

Purpose and Research

The primary purpose of the Citrus Variety Collection is to support scientific research and breeding programs. Researchers utilize the collection to study citrus genetics, disease resistance, and fruit characteristics. This research has been crucial in developing new citrus varieties that are more resistant to diseases, pests, and environmental stresses. Additionally, the collection serves as an educational resource for students and the public, offering tours and workshops to disseminate knowledge about citrus diversity and cultivation.

Conservation Efforts

Conservation is a key aspect of the Citrus Variety Collection's mission. With the threat of diseases such as citrus greening (Huanglongbing, HLB) and the loss of natural habitats, maintaining genetic diversity within the citrus family is more important than ever. The collection acts as a living gene bank, preserving rare and endangered citrus varieties that might otherwise be lost. Efforts are also made to continuously expand the collection by acquiring new specimens from around the world, ensuring the long-term conservation of citrus genetic resources.

Facilities and Access

The Citrus Variety Collection is spread over approximately 22 acres of land on the UCR campus. It is maintained by a team of university staff and researchers who oversee the care and documentation of the collection. While primarily a research facility, the collection is open to the public through scheduled tours and events, allowing visitors to explore the diverse range of citrus varieties and learn about the importance of citrus agriculture and genetics.

Impact on the Citrus Industry

The work conducted at the Citrus Variety Collection has had a significant impact on the global citrus industry. By providing a source of genetic material for breeding, the collection has contributed to the development of new citrus varieties with improved traits, such as enhanced flavor, increased nutritional value, and resistance to diseases and pests. These advancements help ensure the sustainability and productivity of citrus agriculture worldwide.

See Also

• Agricultural Research
• Genetic Conservation
• University of California, Riverside