Genetic resources of mangabeira (Hancornia speciosa Gomes) in protected areas in Brazil

Brazil, a recognized country for its rich biodiversity, is also known for the rapid loss of a significant part of its in situ genetic resources. Among hundreds of native species that have great potential for economic exploitation, many are not yet acknowledged or are yet to be described. The mangabeira (Hancornia speciosa Gomes) is a fruit tree at the begging of the domestication process and has enormous economic potential. However, it is being affected by genetic erosion. In this communication, we describe five populations of mangabeira located in distinct protected areas in the Midwest and Northeast regions of Brazil, where the varieties speciosa and pubescens occur. We show that even in protected areas, mangabeira plants are not in the best situation for conservation. The areas are located in diverse biomes and environmental conditions; therefore, such populations provide an opportunity to improve the knowledge about the species and map its areas of occurrence. We highlight the relevance of maintaining mangabeira populations as reservoirs of genetic resources, which leverage the utilization of the genetic variability of this species. These descriptions highlight the significant importance of maintaining protected areas as a suitable strategy for in situ conservation.