Triticum dicoccum Schrank ex Schübl. as an important genetic resource for wheat breeding

Abstract

Ancient cereal crops with unique genetic diversity, which determines a wide range of hereditary traits including specific protein composition and micronutrient profiles of the grain, are of great scientific interest. Triticum dicoccum Schrank ex Schübl., or emmer wheat, is one such species. In Russia, emmer wheat is currently cultivated in the Republics of Tatarstan, Bashkortostan, Chuvashia, Dagestan, and Karachay-Cherkessia. Emmer can successfully grow under various soil and climatic conditions typical of regions with diverse agroecological characteristics. Its grain is rich in protein, including all essential amino acids, as well as in micronutrients, vitamins, and other beneficial compounds. Emmer belongs to the group of ancient wheats that share a common ancestor with bread wheat, and