From Genetic Diversity to Economic Valorization: The Case of the ‘Zidi’ Fig Cultivar (Ficus carica L.) in the Region of Kesra, North-West Tunisia

The use of fresh and dried figs has increased markedly in Tunisia in recent years, leading to a rise in public subsidies to support the further development of fig cultivation, especially in well-adapted production areas and with the adoption of innovative agronomic practices. This study aimed to carry out a comprehensive morphological and genetic characterization of fig germplasm from the Kesra region in north-western Tunisia, which is widely recognized for its long-standing tradition of fig production, in particular of the ‘Zidi’ cultivar. Field surveys and prospections enabled the identification of 26 distinct local fig cultivars, which were morphologically characterized and genotyped using 12 microsatellite (SSR) markers. All cultivars showed a specific allelic profile, including ‘Zidi’. The results provided valuable information for the conservation and management of Tunisian fig genetic resources. Moreover, the data will support the valorization of local fig production in the area through the establishment of the Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) ‘Fig of Kesra’, thereby contributing to the sustainable development of traditional orchards and the preservation of local agrobiodiversity.