Journal of Tea Science Research, 2024, Vol.14, No.4, 202-214 http://hortherbpublisher.com/index.php/jtsr 203 However, there are still gaps in our knowledge, particularly regarding the genetic diversity of tea germplasm in under-researched regions like Uganda (Nalugo et al., 2022). Additionally, the role of the tea microbiome in promoting plant growth and enhancing tea quality remains an emerging field that requires further exploration (Bag et al., 2021). This study explores the current status and progress in the collection, identification, and genetic diversity research of tea germplasm resources, providing scientific basis and guidance for future research and applications. By analyzing the genetic diversity of tea germplasm across different regions worldwide, the study summarizes the characteristics of genetic resource distribution, identification methods, and conservation status, while highlighting the existing gaps in research. It also discusses the achievements in genetic diversity research of tea plants through modern molecular marker technologies and bioinformatics tools, offering valuable references for the development of superior breeding materials and the conservation of rare germplasm resources. The study emphasizes the importance of tea germplasm conservation and utilization research in the context of global climate change and shifting market demands, and suggests directions and priorities for future research. This research will contribute to enhancing the management and utilization efficiency of tea germplasm resources, providing theoretical support and practical guidance for the sustainable development of the tea industry. 2 Collection of Tea Germplasm Resources 2.1 Classification and distribution of germplasm resources Wild tea germplasm resources are primarily found in regions with rich biodiversity and favorable climatic conditions. For instance, Wuyishan (Mount Wuyi) in Southeast China is renowned for its diverse wild tea germplasm, which includes both black and oolong tea varieties. The genetic diversity in this region is significant, with high levels of observed and expected heterozygosity, indicating a rich genetic pool (Liu et al., 2022). Similarly, the ancient tea plant germplasm in Sandu County of Guizhou Province, China, exhibits high genetic and phenotypic diversity, making it a valuable resource for breeding new tea plant varieties (Zhao et al., 2021). Cultivated tea germplasm includes a wide range of varieties developed through selective breeding and clonal selection. In Russia, the tea collection at the FRC SSC RAS includes locally derived cultivars and γ-irradiation mutants, which are adapted to extreme environmental conditions (Samarina et al., 2022). In China, the China National Germplasm Hangzhou Tea Repository preserves elite tea genetic resources, which are characterized by high genetic diversity and distinct genetic clusters (Chen et al., 2005). Additionally, the Biluochun tea plant populations in Dongting Mountain are known for their diverse agronomic traits and high breeding value (Lei et al., 2023). 2.2 Current status of germplasm collection domestically and internationally In China, significant efforts have been made to collect and conserve tea germplasm. The Wuyishan region, for example, is a critical area for the conservation of tea germplasm due to its rich genetic diversity (Liu et al., 2022). Similarly, the tea germplasm in Sandu County of Guizhou Province is being actively managed to preserve its genetic and phenotypic diversity (Zhao et al., 2021). The China National Germplasm Hangzhou Tea Repository also plays a crucial role in preserving elite tea genetic resources (Chen et al., 2005). Internationally, tea germplasm collections are being developed to adapt to diverse environmental conditions and enhance genetic diversity. In Russia, the FRC SSC RAS has established a tea collection that includes γ-irradiation mutants with larger genome sizes, which may improve adaptability to biotic and abiotic stress (Samarina et al., 2022). In Korea, the genetic diversity of tea germplasm is being assessed to ensure effective collection, conservation, and utilization (Lee et al., 2019). Additionally, the genetic diversity of tea germplasm in Ningde, China, is being studied to support breeding programs and conservation efforts (Zhu et al., 2023). 2.3 Strategies and methods for collecting tea germplasm resources Ecological zoning is a critical strategy for collecting tea germplasm, as it ensures the representation of diverse environmental conditions. For instance, the tea germplasm collection in Wuyishan includes landraces with
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