Background: Faba bean (Vicia faba L.) is a nutrient rich yet underutilized legume endowed with considerable potential for enhancing food security and plant-based nutritional sustainability. In Morocco, however, the compositional diversity of local varieties and their biochemical response to processing interventions remain insufficiently characterized, thereby constraining the optimal valorization of this crop within sustainable dietary systems. Aims: This study aimed to evaluate the nutritional composition, phytochemical profile, and antioxidant properties of nine Moroccan faba bean varieties, and to assess the influence of dehulling on their biochemical composition. Materials and Methods: A comparative cross-sectional analysis was conducted on nine Vicia faba L. varieties cultivated in Morocco. Both whole seed (WS) and dehulled seed (DS) fractions were analyzed for proximate composition, mineral content, amino acid and fatty acid profiles, and phytochemical constituents. Antioxidant activities were determined employing three complementary assays: DPPH radical scavenging, ABTS radical cation decolorization, and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP). Results: Significant varietal and processing effects were observed across all measured parameters. Crude protein content ranged from 20.05% (Alfia 21, WS) to 28.43% (Zina, DS), with dehulling consistently increasing protein concentration across varieties. Lysine and leucine were identified as the most abundant essential amino acids, with particularly elevated levels recorded in the Alfia 17 variety. Fatty acid profiling revealed a predominance of unsaturated fatty acids— most notably linoleic acid (45.31 – 54.42%)—, the proportion of which increased in DS fractions, whilst palmitic acid decreased correspondingly. Among macro-elements, potassium was the most abundant, followed by phosphorus and sulfur; iron and zinc constituted the principal microelements. Dehulling reduced calcium content (by up to 52.9%), whilst increasing phosphorus and sulfur concentrations. Total polyphenol content ranged from 2.86 to 4.26 mg GAE/g DM in WS fraction and declined significantly in DS fractions following seed coat removal. Antioxidant activities were higher in whole seeds across all varieties and assays. Conclusions: Moroccan Vicia faba L. varieties exhibit substantial nutritional diversity, characterized by elevated protein content and favorable unsaturated fatty acid profiles. Dehulling enhances protein concentration and improves the bioavailability of select minerals; however, it concurrently diminishes antioxidant capacity as a consequence of phenolic compound loss associated with seed coat removal. These findings underscore the imperative to optimize processing strategies that reconcile nutrient enrichment with the retention of bioactive compounds, thereby maximizing the nutritional and functional value of faba bean in food system applications. Keywords: Vicia faba L, Nutritional Quality, Phenolic compounds, Antioxidant activity; Dehulling; Moroccan legumes.

Carob (Ceratonia siliqua L.) is a plant with significant nutritional and medicinal properties that is widely used in the Mediterranean region. In this study, we investigated the phenolic content and antioxidant activity of extracts from in vitro and in vivo grown carob plant parts. We found that the LAC medium was more effective than MS medium in promoting the accumulation of phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity in vitro in leaves. Our comparative analysis of in vivo and in vitro plant samples revealed considerable variations in the levels of bioactive compounds in different parts of the carob tree. Notably, the in vitro leaf extracts showed a comparable production of total phenolic content compared to in vivo leaf extracts, indicating that in vitro culture techniques could be a promising alternative to produce bioactive compounds from carob. Overall, our findings provide new insights into the potential applications of plant tissue culture to produce valuable phytochemicals and highlight the need for further research to optimize the in vitro production of phenolics in carob.

The argan tree (Argania spinosa), endemic to Morocco, holds major ecological and economic value. We generated a high-quality, chromosome-scale, phased reference genome using PacBio HiFi long reads and Hi-C scaffolding. The assembly resolves two haplotypes, each organized into 11 pseudochromosomes (2n = 22). Haplotype-1 spans 621 Mb (scaffold N50 = 50 Mb; GC = 33.79%), and Haplotype-2 spans 615 Mb (scaffold N50 = 51 Mb; GC = 33.77%). BUSCO completeness is 97.8% for Hap1 and 98.1% for Hap2, with Merqury QV values of 75 for both, indicating high consensus accuracy and strong phasing. Telomeric repeats (AAACCCT)n appear at both ends of most chromosomes, and only small terminal gaps remain, so we conservatively classify the assemblies as near-T2T. We annotated 35,183 gene loci producing 39,805 mRNA isoforms and 410 tRNA genes, with 76.46% of loci functionally characterized. Repeats represent 61.65% of the genome, dominated by LTR retrotransposons. All raw data, assemblies, and annotations are publicly accessible, providing a robust genomic foundation for conservation genetics, breeding, and evolutionary studies in A. spinosa.

Crenate broomrape (Orobanche crenata) is a root-parasitic weed that causes devastating problems in agricultural production, particularly in Mediterranean countries, including Morocco. In May 2019, O. crenata was found infecting the roots of Armenian cucumber (Cucumis melo var. flexuosus) in the northwestern region of Morocco (34 degrees 12 ' 30.3 '' N, 5 degrees 51 ' 30.8 '' W, 66 m elevation). The occurrence of O. crenata parasitism was confirmed through the association of its haustoria with the host plant root. Based on morphology and internal transcribed spacer sequencing, the Orobanche species was identified as O. crenata. To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first to report the parasitism of O. crenata on C. melo var. flexuosus (Cucurbitaceae) in Morocco. Because O. crenata is widely distributed in the country with a broad host range, it could pose a serious threat to the production of this cucurbit crop. Therefore, implementing effective management approaches is recommended to control this parasite.

Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) is one of the most expensive spices in the world. Saffron, prized for its vibrant color, aroma, and taste, is essential in the food industry and traditional medicine. Its culinary uses, therapeutic benefits, and potential antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties highlight its significant importance. Its genetic diversity has significant implications for cultivation and quality. In this study, genetic diversity among 76 saffron accessions, collected from 13 localities of Taliouin region of Morocco, were evaluated using sequence-related amplified polymorphism (SRAP) markers. A total of 63 polymorphic fragments were produced with an average of total number and polymorphic bands per primer were of 10.5 and 10.16, respectively. Most of the variations among the localities, revealed by the Analysis of Molecular Variance, originated from the within accessions differentiation (81%; p < 0.010). Cluster Analysis, Principal Coordinate Analysis (PCoA), and population structure confirmed the main groups and corroborated genetic homogeneity across accessions. In fact, close relationships were revealed between accessions from different locations, showing that there was no relationship between genetic divergence and geographical locality. This investigation represents a pivotal advance towards fostering sustainable development and bolstering the economic empowerment of the saffron farming communities in Morocco.

During a survey of parasitic plants occurring in Morocco, a Phelipanche species was observed on roots of field-grown tobacco plants (35 degrees 6 ' 49 '' N, 4 degrees 14 ' 34 '' W) in northern Morocco in the summer of 2021. The observed morphological traits coupled with molecular evidence, as well as phylogenetic analysis, indicate the parasitic plant as Phelipanche nana. To our knowledge, this is the first record of P. nana occurrence in tobacco fields in Morocco. Hence, it is imperative to recognize the threat posed by this parasitic weed spreading to other cultivated fields, which results in significant reductions in crop yield. Consequently, urgent and effective control measures are necessary to prevent the further propagation of this parasite.

Chocolate spot disease is a major constraint to faba bean production in Morocco. This study assessed its prevalence and characterised the phenotypic diversity of associated Botrytis spp. to inform disease management. A four-year survey across five key Moroccan regions confirmed the widespread occurrence (100% field prevalence) of chocolate spot in diverse agro-ecological zones. Among 73 isolates characterised, Botrytis fabae (73% of identified isolates) was predominant over Botrytis cinerea (26%). While isolates exhibited considerable morphological diversity, this did not correlate with geographic origin. Pathogenicity assessment of 50 isolates on four differential faba bean varieties revealed three distinct virulence clusters (low, moderate, high). Notably, highly virulent isolates were concentrated in the semiarid Doukkala region, supporting a significant link between pathogen aggressiveness and agro-ecological conditions. Furthermore, faba bean varieties responded differentially and significantly to these virulence clusters (ANOVA, p < .005). These findings highlight the complex nature of Botrytis populations and underscore the critical need for region-specific resistance breeding programs and tailored deployment of faba bean cultivars in Morocco.

Between June and July 2021, during a field survey in Agadir province, southern Morocco (30 degrees 20 ' 37.8 '' N, 9 degrees 26 ' 38.2 '' W), the parasitic plant Phelipanche tunetana was found parasitizing Brassica oleracea var. gemmifera L. (brussels sprouts, Brassicaceae) plants. Morphological characterization, molecular analysis, and phylogenetic analysis confirmed the identification of the parasite. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of P. tunetana infecting brussels sprouts in Morocco. These findings suggest that P. tunetana could potentially spread to other Brassica crop-growing regions in Morocco in the future. Therefore, appropriate management strategies must be undertaken urgently to prevent further expansion of this parasitic weed.

This chapter explores the dynamic field of applied metabolomics in the context of plant biotechnology. Metabolomics, the systematic study of small molecules, offers valuable insights into the intricate biochemical processes within plant cells. The chapter begins by elucidating the fundamental principles of metabolomics and its applications, emphasizing its pivotal role in unraveling the complex metabolic networks governing plant growth, development, and the response to environmental stimuli. A comprehensive overview of cutting-edge analytical techniques, including mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, is provided. The chapter further delves into case studies and success stories, showcasing how metabolomics has been instrumental in addressing key challenges in plant biotechnology, such as enhancing crop yield, stress tolerance, and the production of bioactive compounds. Moreover, it discusses the integration of metabolomics with other omics approaches, fostering a holistic understanding of plant systems. As plant biotechnology continues to evolve, the role of metabolomics as a powerful tool for precision agriculture and sustainable crop improvement will become increasingly evident. This chapter serves as a valuable resource for researchers, students, and practitioners seeking to harness the potential of metabolomics in advancing plant biotechnology.

Chocolate spot, caused by Botrytis fabae, poses a significant threat to faba bean production in Morocco, leading to decreased crop quality and quantity. This study assesses the sensitivity of B. fabae isolates to three fungicides-fenhexamid, fludioxonil, and boscalid-commonly used in Moroccan faba bean cultivation. Fungicide sensitivity tests were conducted on 22 single-spore isolates of B. fabae from five faba bean-growing regions in Morocco. The Growth Inhibition Percentage (GIP) of each isolate was calculated using an automated quantitative (AQ) test to determine sensitivity profiles to the three fungicides. Six representative isolates from different sensitivity profiles were tested against a range of concentrations of fenhexamid, fludioxonil, and boscalid (0–1,000 mg/L) to determine EC50 values. In vivo greenhouse experiment evaluated the efficacy of two fungicides fludioxonil and boscalid against B. fabae isolates with distinct sensitivity profiles. Mass Disease Index (MDI) was used to evaluate fungicide effectiveness. Results indicated that 45% of the isolates demonstrated resistance to fludioxonil, and 14% exhibited resistance to boscalid. Two of the three boscalid-resistant isolates were also resistant to fludioxonil. In contrast, the majority (95%) of isolates were moderately resistant or sensitive to fenhexamid. The calculated EC50 values of fludioxonil, boscalid and fenhexamid against B. fabae isolates clearly distinguished sensitive from resistant isolates; for resistant isolates EC50 were ≥ 140 mg/L while the values for sensitive isolates were ≤ 30 mg/L. In vivo trials revealed inefficacy of fludioxonil and boscalid against resistant isolates. These findings highlight the emergence of fludioxonil and boscalid insensitivity in B. fabae in Morocco, indicating the need for continuous monitoring of fungicide resistance in chocolate spot management. Future research should develop methods to manage fungicide resistance, aiming for sustainable control of chocolate spot in faba bean.

During a survey of parasitic plants occurrence in Morocco, a Phelipanche species was observed on roots of field-grown tobacco plants (35°6'49"N, 4°14'34"O) in north-central Morocco in the summer of 2021. The observed morphological traits coupled with molecular evidence, as well as phylogenetic analysis indicate the parasitic plant as Phelipanche nana. To our knowledge, this is the first record of P. nana occurrence in tobacco fields in Morocco. Hence, it is imperative to recognize the threat posed by this parasitic weed spreading to other cultivated fields, which results in significant reductions in crop yield. Consequently, urgent and effective control measures are necessary to prevent the further propagation of this parasite.

Enterococcus, a common commensal organism in the human gut, exhibits a dual nature with certain strains offering probiotic benefits, while others are associated with nosocomial infections. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive examination of the genome of Enterococcus mundtii strain 203 to assess its probiotic potential and safety profile. The complete genome sequencing, assembly, and annotation were performed, followed by bioinformatics analysis. Our investigation reveals a detailed characterization of the Enterococcus mundtii 203 genome, originally isolated from camel feces, with a size of 3,053,234 bases and a GC content of 38.4%. Importantly, our analysis suggests that this strain poses no risk as a human pathogen due to the absence of antibiotic resistance determinants and virulence factors. The genome harbors a multitude of genes responsible for lactic acid production, bioactive peptide synthesis, adhesion molecule expression, resistance to harsh gut conditions, and enhancement of host metabolism. These findings underline the potential probiotic functionality of Enterococcus mundtii 203, positioning it as a promising candidate. Notably, our study did not identify any sequences related to insertion elements or CRISPR-Cas fragments.

Argania spinosa is among the most important species of the Moroccan forest in terms of ecological, environmental, and socio-economic aspects. However, it faces a delicate balance between regeneration and degradation in its natural habitat. Hence, the efforts to preserve and regenerate argan forests are crucial for biodiversity, soil quality, and local livelihoods, yet they face challenges like overgrazing and climate change. Sustainable management practices, including reforestation and community engagement, are vital for mitigating degradation. Similarly, exploiting the argan tree’s rhizosphere can enhance soil quality by leveraging its rich microbial diversity. This approach not only improves crop growth but also maintains ecosystem balance, ultimately benefiting both agriculture and the environment. This enrichment can be achieved by different factors: mycorrhizae, plant extracts, algae extracts, and plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR). The benefits provided by PGPR may include increased nutrient availability, phytohormone production, shoot, root development, protection against several plant pathogens, and disease reduction. In this study, the effect of rhizobacteria isolated from the Agran rhizosphere was evaluated on germination percentage and radicle length for Argania spinosa in vitro tests, growth, collar diameter, and branching number under greenhouse conditions. One hundred and twenty (120) bacteria were isolated from the argan rhizosphere and evaluated for their capacity for phosphate solubilization and indole acetic acid production. The results showed that 52 isolates could solubilize phosphorus, with the diameters of the solubilization halos varying from 0.56 ± 0.14 to 2.9 ± 0.08 cm. Among 52 isolates, 25 were found to be positive for indole acetic acid production. These 25 isolates were first tested on maize growth to select the most performant ones. The results showed that 14 isolates from 25 tested stimulated maize growth significantly, and 3 of them by 28% (CN005, CN006, and CN009) compared to the control. Eight isolates (CN005, CN006, CN004, CN007, CN008, CN009, CN010, and CN011) that showed plant growth of more than 19% were selected to evaluate their effect on argan germination rate and radicle length and were subjected to DNA extraction and conventional Sanger sequencing. The 8 selected isolates were identified as: Brevundimonas naejangsanensis sp2, Alcaligenes faecalis, Brevundimonas naejangsanensis sp3, Brevundimonas naejangsanensis sp4, Leucobacter aridicollis sp1, Leucobacter aridicollis sp2, Brevundimonas naejangsanensis sp1, and Staphylococcus saprophyticus. The results showed that Leucobacter aridicollis sp2 significantly increased the germination rate by 95.83%, and the radicle length with a value of 2.71 cm compared to the control (1.60 cm), followed by Brevundimonas naejangsanensis sp3 and Leucobacter aridicollis sp1 (2.42 cm and 2.11 cm, respectively). Under greenhouse conditions, the results showed that the height growth increased significantly for Leucobacter aridicollis sp1 (42.07%) and Leucobacter aridicollis sp2 (39.99%). The isolates Brevundimonas naejangsanensis sp3 and Leucobacter aridicollis sp1 increased the gain of collar diameter by 41.56 and 41.21%, respectively, followed by Leucobacter aridicollis sp2 and Staphyloccocus saprophyticus (38.68 and 22.79%). Leucobacter aridicollis sp1 increased the ramification number per plant to 12 compared to the control, which had 6 ramifications per plant. The use of these isolates represents a viable alternative in sustainable agriculture by improving the germination rate and root development of the argan tree, as well as its development, while increasing the availability of nutrients in the soil and consequently improving fertilization.

Between June and July 2021, during a field survey in Agadir province, southern Morocco (30°20'37.8" N, 9°26'38.2" W), the parasitic plant Phelipanche tunetana was found parasitizing Brassica oleracea var. gemmifera L. (Brussels sprouts, Brassicaceae) plants. Morphological characterization, molecular, and phylogenetic analysis confirmed the identification of the parasite. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of P. tunetana infecting brussels sprouts in Morocco. These findings suggest that P. tunetana could potentially spread to other brassica crops-growing regions in Morocco in the future. Therefore, appropriate management strategies must be urgently taken to prevent further expansion of this parasitic weed.

Au Maroc, la lentille est cultivée dans des conditions pluviales et sa productivité est fortement influencée par les aléas climatiques, notamment la quantité et la distribution des précipitations, ainsi que les hautes températures. Dans ce contexte, l’augmentation de la production est tributaire de plusieurs facteurs, notamment l’utilisation de variétés améliorées, la maîtrise de l’itinéraire technique et des bonnes pratiques agricoles permettant une meilleure efficience d’utilisation de l’eau. Les recherches conduites à l’échelle nationale ont abouti au développement des nouvelles variétés améliorées et la mise ne place des nouvelles pratiques culturales, comme le semis direct, qui pourraient aboutir à une meilleure résilience face au changement climatique notamment en termes de tolérance à la sècheresse et aux hautes températures et de mécanisation. En effet, certaines nouvelles variétés sélectionnées lors des expérimentations pluriannuelles ont montré une meilleure tolérance au déficit hydrique et à la chaleur grâce à des caractéristiques morphologiques, phénologiques et physiologiques. D’autre part, des travaux de recherche en caractérisation des ressources génétiques (populations locales, espèces sauvages) ont permis d’identifier des sources de tolérance/résistance à ces stress abiotiques qui ont été intégrées en tant que parents dans la phase amont des programmes de création variétale. Néanmoins, il est important de renforcer les initiatives de transfert de technologies adéquates pour promouvoir l’utilisation des obtentions variétales et des techniques d’adaptation par les agriculteurs afin de mieux valoriser les acquis de recherche. D’autre part, il est essentiel de poursuivre la collection et l’exploration des ressources génétiques et la création des nouvelles variétés en ciblant en priorité les caractères agronomiques, morphologiques, physiologiques et qualitatifs. Cela répondrait aux besoins des agriculteurs, des consommateurs et des industriels en matière de résilience au changement climatique, de rentabilité et de qualité nutritive. L’intégration des technologies modernes de phénotypage et de génotypage ainsi que l’utilisation des techniques de speed breeding dans le programme d’amélioration génétique est une étape importante pour améliorer le gain génétique et accélérer le développement de nouvelles variétés dotées des traits d’intérêts, notamment la stabilité du rendement face aux variations climatiques caractérisées par les faibles précipitations et la récurrence des épisodes de chaleur.

The African BioGenome Project (AfricaBP) Open Institute for Genomics and Bioinformatics aims to overcome barriers to capacity building through its distributed African regional workshops and prioritizes the exchange of grassroots knowledge and innovation in biodiversity genomics and bioinformatics. In 2023, we implemented 28 workshops on biodiversity genomics and bioinformatics, covering 11 African countries across the 5 African geographical regions. These regional workshops trained 408 African scientists in hands-on molecular biology, genomics and bioinformatics techniques as well as the ethical, legal and social issues associated with acquiring genetic resources. Here, we discuss the implementation of transformative strategies, such as expanding the regional workshop model of AfricaBP to involve multiple countries, institutions and partners, including the proposed creation of an African digital database with sequence information relating to both biodiversity and agriculture. This will ultimately help create a critical mass of skilled genomics and bioinformatics scientists across Africa. The African BioGenome Project (AfricaBP) Open Institute for Genomics and Bioinformatics established a series of regional workshops in 2023 to exchange knowledge and overcome barriers, which could serve as a model for other scientific communities.

In 2022, around 54 % of African students were denied student visas to study in the United States (US), compared to 36 % of Asian students and 9 % of European students, despite African immigrants in the US often being more highly educated than the US native-born population. This issue cannot be attributed solely to the dichotomy between the Global North and South in visa regimes, but it is also evident among African nations across regional economic blocs. The African BioGenome Project (AfricaBP) Open Institute for Genomics and Bioinformatics, which aims to overcome barriers to capacity building through its distributed African regional workshops, prioritizes grassroots knowledge exchange and innovation in biodiversity genomics and bioinformatics. In 2023, we orchestrated the implementation of 27 capacity building workshops on biodiversity genomics and bioinformatics, covering 10 African countries across 5 African geographical regions. The AfricaBP Open Institute regional workshops raised awareness of biodiversity genomics and bioinformatics among 3788 registered participants, and trained 408 African scientists in hands-on molecular biology, genomics, and bioinformatics techniques. Here, we discuss the implementation of transformative strategies by deploying the AfricaBP Open Institute multi-country, multi-institution, and multi-partner hybrid regional workshop model, including the proposed creation of an African digital database containing sequence information relating to biodiversity and agriculture.

This study investigates the development of an in vitro system for callus induction, root-like protrusion formation, and plant regeneration in Orobanche crenata, a parasitic plant of economic significance to legume crops. The research aims to establish a controlled environment for studying O. crenata biology and physiology independent of host plants, offering insights into its growth dynamics and potential applications in parasitic weed management. Various culture media and growth regulators were tested to optimize conditions conducive to callus initiation and subsequent differentiation. Results demonstrate that B5 medium supplemented with gibberellic acid (GA) at 20 mg L-1 effectively induces callus formation and supports the development of root-like structures, crucial for further studies on host-parasite interactions and potential therapeutic applications.

The genetic diversity between 23 Moroccan date palm cultivars collected from the National Palm Collection at the INRA (National Agricultural Research Institute) experimental field in Zagora was assessed using SSR markers that are specifically designed for date palm. Among the 16 tested SSR, 13 were successfully amplified, and were selected to carry out this study. 208 bands were amplified, ranging from 10 to 25 bands per cultivar with an average of 16 alleles per cultivar. The value of heterozygosity of the studied markers ranged from 0.11 to 0.30. The pairwise genetic distances between those cultivars ranged from 0.06 to 0.46. The hierarchical cluster analysis distributed the 23 genotypes into four different groups of one to ten cultivars.