Biocultural vulnerability of traditional crops in the Indian Trans Himalaya

Traditional agricultural landscapes are vital reservoirs of biocultural
heritage and agrobiodiversity, yet traditional farming systems and their
unique crop landraces face increasing marginalization and genetic erosion.
Using northwest Himalaya as a case study, we examine the ecological
resilience and genetic diversity of an understudied traditional crop,
black pea (scientific name unclear), alongside barley (Hordeum vulgare),
and compare them to the introduced cash crop, green pea (Pisum sativum
L.). Participatory field experiments with local farmers revealed that
traditional crops outperform introduced varieties in survival and
reproduction traits across sites. We generate the first whole-genome
sequencing data for black peas. Clustering and nutritional analyses
highlight black pea’s genetic richness and dietary potential. Our findings
underscore the importance of integrating Traditional Ecological Knowledge
with ecological science to sustain agrobiodiversity, enhance climate
resilience, and promote sustainable food systems. We provide insights for
global agri-food innovations and socio-ecological stability in fragile
mountain ecosystems.