Biocultural vulnerability of traditional crops in the Indian Trans Himalaya

Traditional agricultural landscapes are critical for conserving biocultural and ecological diversity. Despite their significance, traditional systems have often been overlooked, leading to genetic erosion of crop landraces. Using the fragile ecosystems of northwest Himalaya as case study, we examine the ecological and genetic resilience of an understudied and lesser-known traditional crop, black pea, and barley (Hordeum vulgare) and compare them to the introduced cash crop of green pea (Pisum sativum L.). We co-designed field experiments with local farmers to assess survival and reproductive traits for the crops. We performed whole-genome sequencing to investigate the genetic diversity of black pea and describe their nutritional profile. Our findings indicate that traditional crops are better adapted to local climatic conditions and hold considerable genetic diversity and nutritional potential. We emphasize the importance of integrating traditional knowledge with scientific research to promote sustainable food systems and socio-ecological stability in vulnerable mountain regions.